Local group Touch Network, which runs neighbourhood story-sharing evenings where speakers talk about overcoming personal challenges, is encouraging people to “save a little joy for January” and send someone a special treat in the darkest part of the year.
Touch has partnered with small local businesses to offer a catalogue of gifts at www.touch.network/beat-the-blues. These range from bags and accessories to a mosaic-making experience day and bow ties for cats!
Shoppers can place an advance order for a present to be sent to a loved one during January.
“There are lots of us who find January hard – it's dark, it’s cold, and Christmas is over!’ said Debs Carter, founder of Touch.
“And with the cost-of-living crisis, people will have extra worries this time. We all want to find simple ways of connecting with the people we love and showing that we care.
“Instead of giving a gift on Christmas Day, we’re encouraging people to save a little joy for January and send someone a special treat when they need it most.”
Gifts sold will help fund Touch’s storytelling events, which support people’s mental health and wellbeing.
Touch will also be running a series of socials during January: more info and booking from www.touch.network/beat-the-blues