Random acts of kindness spread happiness across Walsall

Community heroes and local residents were surprised with a small gift in an effort to spread a little happiness as part of national Random Acts of Kindness Day.

whg’s Community Champions visited customers on 17 February with a small token of appreciation as part of their work to improve the health and wellbeing of people across the borough.

Residents living in one of whg’s schemes  for the over 55s were presented with a £10 voucher to support them with their shopping bills.

Workers and volunteers who help make their area a better place to live were also surprised with a thank you note and a small gift– these included school crossing wardens, nurses, volunteers and  teachers.

Nicola Waite, Stronger Communities Manager at whg, said: “It was really important for us to mark this day by recognising people in our communities who help others by delivering important services which enable people to feel happy and hopeful.

“Spreading kindness is great for helping the people around you feel better about themselves. Research shows that these small acts can make a big difference in someone’s life, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, improving wellbeing and   physical and mental health.

“The day has also enabled us to connect with our communities, chat to some of our customers who may be feeling particularly low and let them know there is support out there.”

whg’s Stronger Communities Team aims to support people and communities to live independently and have active, prosperous and healthy lives by tackling the social determinants of health. The team also includes Community Health Champions funded by NHS Black Country ICB and qualified social prescribers.