Our Charity Insurance team recently carried out a survey into people’s planned charitable giving over the festive period this year compared to last year. The results reveal that despite the financial pressures many are facing, Brits are continuing to show incredible generosity.

When we asked how their giving plans this year compared to last Christmas, 92% of those surveyed said they planned to match or increase their charitable giving over this festive period compared to last year. 79% of respondents said they plan to donate to charities at the same level and 13% intend to give more. Only a small percentage (6%) expect to reduce their contributions and just 2% say they will not contribute at all.

A local focus

When it comes to the types of charities people are most likely to support, community-focused causes are at the top of the list. Over half (53%) of respondents said they plan to contribute to local community charities this year. Charities supporting children and young people were a close second (51%), followed by animal welfare organisations (43%).

Other causes, such as global crisis relief (17%) and climate or environmental charities (15%), received less support, perhaps reflecting a greater focus on helping closer to home this year.

Generosity beyond donations

What stood out to us was how many people are giving back in ways beyond monetary donations. This year, a staggering 74% said they plan to donate items such as food, clothing, or toys.

Meanwhile, 52% are rolling up their sleeves and volunteering their time, and 29% are using social media to promote donation and grant opportunities, like those of the Benefact Group’s Movement for Good programme. It’s clear that Brits are finding other ways to support causes that matter to them.

What inspires people to give?

A personal connection to a cause came out on top, inspiring 70% of respondents. Social media also played a big role, prompting 31% to give, while email campaigns influenced 24%.

Traditional forms of advertising, like TV (7%), radio (2%), and print media (7%), had less impact, showing the growing influence of digital channels and personal relationships.

Steady commitment to giving

Christmas has always been a special time for generosity, and our survey results confirm this. Over a quarter of respondents (27%) told us they are more likely to donate during the festive season than at any other time of year. Meanwhile, 67% say their charitable habits remain consistent throughout the year.

Challenges impacting generosity

It’s no secret that many of us are feeling the pinch this year, and our survey revealed the top factors influencing people’s charitable giving:

• Rising cost of living – This was by far the most common concern, cited by 88% of respondents.
• Changes in personal finances – Factors like reduced income, job changes, or increased expenses were highlighted by 44%.
• Economic uncertainty – Concerns about the broader economy and potential recession influenced 13% of people.

These challenges are significant, yet it’s positive to see how many people are still determined to make a difference with their money and time.

Despite the challenges we’re all facing, the generosity of people across the UK seems as strong as ever. Community, compassion, and the desire to make a difference continue to drive us to give, whether that’s through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word about the causes we care about.

Gungor Baykan, our Head of Broking and Operations, summed it up perfectly:

“Despite ongoing financial pressures in the UK, the generosity of our people is clear to see in these findings. It’s inspiring to see so many people prioritising community, family, and giving, even in challenging times. The willingness to contribute both financially and through acts of service speaks volumes about the compassion of our communities.”

About WRS Insurance Brokers

At WRS Insurance Brokers, we are specialists in Charity Insurance and our experienced team is passionate about the charitable sector. Our experience has taught us that one size certainly doesn’t fit all and that every charity and not-for-profit organisation faces its own unique risks.

WRS is part of the Benefact Group, a charity-owned, international family of financial services companies that gives all available profits to charity and good causes.