Published December 7, 2017 at 11:59
Rossendale residents are being encouraged to pledge and perform random acts of kindness as part of a community campaign: ‘12 Days of Christmas Kindness.’
Community development programme Lancashire Time Credits, in partnership with Rossendale Borough Council’s ‘Living Well Living Better’ project, is launching the campaign, to support those in the community during the festive period, a time of year when many people can feel particularly lonely and isolated.
Examples of a Kindness pledge include offering to put someone’s bin out, delivering a Christmas card in person and popping in for a chat, or smiling at everyone you meet on your way to work. The evidence suggests that taking part in such community spirited acts are also good for health and strengthens communities.
In addition, for every pledge carried out in the 12 days following the launch, individuals will receive a Lancashire Time Credit. Each Time Credit can be exchanged for an hour of activity from a range of local and national partners, including entrance to selected Blackpool attractions as well as swimming pools and leisure centres across Rossendale. Time Credits can also be gifted to friends and family, to spend for themselves.
To take part in ‘12 Days of Christmas Kindness’, individuals can make a pledge by writing it on Christmas pledge labels and hanging it on a local ‘Kindness Tree’.
There will be a Christmas Kindness Tree at Rawtenstall Market on Saturday, December 9 and people are invited to come and make their pledges on it.
Residents can also share the message about the campaign on social media by sharing everyday acts of kindness on Twitter with images using the hashtag #LWLBRossendale or visiting the Facebook page www.facebook.com/LancashireTimeCredits
Cllr Barbara Ashworth, Portfolio holder for Health and Housing, said:
“These days when we are all so busy taking five minutes out of your day to do something for someone else will mean so much to that person and make you feel happier and more a part of your community. We know that looking out for your neighbours not only helps increase community spirit it also builds a more resilient community when they do have to face challenges. I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the campaign.”
Kindness Trees and Time Credits are available for community groups and organisations to use locally. Contact the Living Better Living Well Team to find out more. Contact: Pam Barmby, pamelabarmby@Rossendalebc.gov.uK 01706 252531