Give to Others

Giving is free, giving is easy; giving feels good! Do something nice for a friend, thank someone, smile, volunteer your time. Any acts of kindness, whether small or large can help you look after your wellbeing.

Giving to others helps, whether it's time, energy or money

It helps you and it helps others. We shouldn’t be embarrassed to acknowledge it. By giving we get something back in turn, and because it feels good, we should do it more.

Giving can take many shapes and it can start small, so give it a try and see what happens.

Research has established the long term benefits of giving, but sometimes we want to feel good straight away. Choosing the right way to give can make that happen.

Research also tells us how people behave, and what lies behind their action.

Find out more about getting started and how to give.

Getting started

You will already be ‘giving’ as part of your relationships with family, friends, and even strangers. You’ll give time and energy to listen and support; to think about them and offer advice. You will also give to neighbours and strangers, through your interactions and encounters. Your warmth and friendliness will spread positivity and connection.

Giving to our environment

Our health is influenced by the environment within which we live, work and play. By becoming involved in initiatives which promote healthier environments, there are also opportunities to further your own health through engagement, social interaction and skill development

Giving to our local community

There are a number of ways you can work with local communities to make a positive contribution to the lives of people in and around Edinburgh.

Payroll Giving

As a University of Edinburgh employee, you can give to any registered UK charity including the University of Edinburgh through your pay. Payroll Giving is a simple, tax-efficient way of donating to the cause you care about most.

This article was published on 17 Mar, 2021