Three gentle ideas for giving and caring this Christmas - A Monthly Moment of Light - December 2025
Dear all
The holiday season can feel very different depending on where you are and what life is asking of you. For some, it’s a time of joy and connection; for others, it can bring moments of sadness, pressure, or reflection. But even as the nights draw in, we have an opportunity to think of the light we can offer to those who are struggling.
In this edition of The Shining Light Project’s monthly newsletter, Benjamin shares three themes that feel especially meaningful right now: supporting those in need, choosing meaningful gifts and looking after yourself.
This photo was taken a refugee camp in Greece at Christmas, where our team worked with so many amazing volunteers.
1.Support those who need love this Christmas
I’ve been fortunate to be part of coordinated communities and volunteer networks for almost two decades, and one of the questions we hear most is: “I want to volunteer or help, but I don’t know where to begin.”
While formal platforms are available, the best place to start is almost always local. Visit your community centre. Go to the library. Walk into any charity in your area. Be as specific as possible about what you can offer. Which days can you give? What times? What kind of volunteering suits your skills?
Simply walk in and offer your support. You’ll be surprised at how many opportunities exist right on your own street.
You can also look even closer. Pay attention to neighbours or people in your area who might be lonely. Starting a conversation can feel awkward for some, but a simple hello, a warm question about their week, or a question about their Christmas plans can open the door.
Many will be alone this year, and if you’re comfortable, offering a visit during a time you have available - or even perhaps an invitation to join you at home - might be the thing that changes someone’s Christmas entirely.
2. Recommended gift: The Little Humanitarian
The fantastic charity, Hope and Aid Direct, has created a beautiful book for children on kindness and love called The Little Humanitarian. I’ve volunteered with their incredible team in Greece and Kosovo. They’ve been delivering humanitarian aid to those who need it most for three decades. For just £5, you can contribute to this wonderful cause - I’ve bought ten copies myself! It makes a great gift for adults and children alike.
The brilliant Chas and Ben from Hope & Aid Direct, delivering aid in Kosovo, 2015
3. Looking After Yourself
Christmas can be a very hard time for many. And just as we encourage people to reach out to their community, the same is true in reverse: if you are going to be alone this Christmas, please consider reaching out. There are people and organisations ready to talk, listen, and be there.
If you are struggling or feeling isolated, please don’t sit with it alone. These lines exist for a reason. And if you’re reading this from outside the UK, similar support lines are available in most countries - your local services or a quick online search can point you in the right direction.
UK helplines
Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7 crisis text line)
Mind Infoline – 0300 123 3393
Age UK Advice Line – 0800 678 1602 (support for older people)
The Silver Line – 0800 4 70 80 90 (24/7 helpline for older people feeling lonely)
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight)
Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline – 0300 330 0630
Childline – 0800 1111 (for children and young people)
This month gives us a chance to look around and notice who might need a little warmth. Whether it’s someone on your street, a charity down the road, or yourself, one small gesture can change the feel of December for someone.
Thank you for reading this month’s moment of light, and we wish you a very happy Christmas. Thank you to Holly Johnson, who wonderfully copy-edits my rambles in this newsletter.
Please do share it with your friends if you think they’d like to receive it. It really helps spread our work. Invite a friend to join here
Take care of yourself, and take care of each other.
With love,
Benjamin and The Shining Light Project Team