Small is beautiful: 10 pro-social acts that could make a big difference

Can seemingly small acts of kindness create a ‘ripple effect’ toward wider change? Here are 10 ways to make an impact where you live

Research shows that the number of independent outlets has risen in every region in England over the past year, while chains have declined. Your custom could help boost beleaguered high streets.

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For every £1 you spent at an indie retailer, around 63p stays in the local economy compared to 40p with a large business.

Swotting up on even the most basic first aid principles could help you act instead of panic in an emergency. If the moment eventually arrives when someone needs help, you’ll thank yourself for taking time to learn how to save a life.

Whether it’s a park, green space or a stretch of beach, most places have a shared area in need of a clean-up. Arrange a date and time, print out posters and create some buzz. Bring along some tea and biscuits for the cleaning ‘base camp’ and away you go.

Do you have old toys scattered around the house? If so, why not donate them to a prison visitor centre? Not only could they keep children occupied, but they might help them to bond with the person they are visiting. The charity Women in Prison accepts donations of arts and craft materials too: the supplies are crucial to their workshops.