8 Socially Distanced Ideas for Random Acts of Kindness Week

The smallest act of kindness can make a huge difference. Here are a few socially distanced ideas for spreading a little happiness in Random Acts of Kindness Week this February.

Most of us do kind things every day and don’t even notice. However, as it's Random Acts of Kindness Week from 17^th to 23^rd February, we thought we’d look at a few ways we can all spread a bit more kindness throughout our communities. This year more than ever, the importance of being kind to one another has come to the fore. Helping and encouraging each other through difficult times is a key element of any strong community. It’s also at the heart of what we do as a home care provider. Every day we see how much even the smallest acts of kindness can brighten up someone’s day.

Spreading kindness is as good for the person doing it as it is for the recipient. Research has shown it can reduce depression and even lower blood pressure, so it’s a win-win! While the pandemic has made it harder to safely interact face to face, here a few ways you can help one another this year while socially distancing.

• Stay in touch: if you know someone who is isolated or have a friend or relative you can’t visit, spare some time to stay in touch over the phone, on face time or by sending cards and letters. Humans are social animals - we need meaningful connection with others. So, if you know someone who may be struggling to stay connected, reach out to them.
• Give someone a compliment: everyone loves a compliment! Write a text, send a card, say it in a phone call or shout it over the garden fence – compliments are free and always appreciated.
• Help your neighbour: perhaps you have a neighbour who is elderly, vulnerable, struggling or an emergency worker on the frontline who might appreciate some extra support. There are lots of ways you might be able to help them out, from walking the dog and doing a bit of shopping, to helping tend their garden or making a meal. Even just checking on them and having a socially distanced chat could make the world of difference to their day.
• Support a charity or start volunteering: That doesn’t have to mean giving money. If you can spare some time to help out, that’s just as valuable. That may be by volunteering, helping spread the word about their fundraising campaigns online or even taking part in a charity challenge. There are lots of virtual charity events going on at the moment – just google your favourite charity to see what’s on. For volunteering opportunities in our area, get in touch with Community Links Bromley.
• Lend a friendly ear: listening is a very valuable and hugely under-appreciated skill. When someone has a problem or is feeling down, just having someone to listen can lighten the load. Taking the time to listen and empathise might not seem like much, but it could be a lifeline for someone who is finding life tough at the moment.
• Support a local business: many businesses have been hit hard this year. Using their services is the best way to help them stay afloat (if it’s practical and safe for you to do so) but if you can’t support them directly at the moment, why not write a positive online review or share their posts on social media? Every kind word could help.
• Give your old things away: a good clear out and re-organisation not only makes you feel better but could help a charity or someone in need. Passing on anything you’ve outgrown or don’t need anymore - clothes, games, toys – could make money for charity, benefit a local community group or be appreciated by someone who’s struggling to make ends meet.
• Don’t forget about you: You’re allowed to be kind to yourself too! In fact, we could all probably do with treating ourselves a little more kindly. Try and take some time out for a little self-care – a relaxing bath, a walk in the fresh air, giving yourself a compliment in the mirror – anything that makes you happy and boosts your overall wellbeing.

Kindness in Bromley

We’ve seen plenty of acts of kindness in the Bromley community over the past year. Despite the challenges brought on by the Covid pandemic, the local community has really pulled together to show how vital caring for one another is for everyone’s wellbeing.

At Bluebird Care Bromley, we believe caring and kindness go hand in hand. Treating every customer with compassion, warmth and friendliness is at the core of our homecare philosophy. If you or a relative need more support to live comfortably at home and would like some help, please get in touch. Our dedicated homecare team tailor every care plan to your unique needs, preferences and personality, so you get the very best bespoke care at home.