aDoddle - Community Mapping

Organ Donation Week
2025-09-22 - 2025-09-28
This year, 2025, for Organ Donation Week this September we want as many local landmarks and buildings across the country to turn pink, to help raise awareness of the incredible gift of organ donation, and to encourage people to confirm their decision on the Register.
Organ Donation Week 2025 will be held on Monday 22nd September to Sunday 28th September.
We hope you can join us to celebrate the gift of life and help build awareness of the incredible difference organ donation can make.
Think pink this Organ Donation Week
Organ Donation Week is the perfect time for people to confirm their support for organ donation by adding their name and decision to the NHS Organ Donor Register.
Often, people need reminding to think or talk about organ donation, and what better visual prompt than a vibrant pink building? Pink is the colour of the organ donation card and the more buildings lit pink the more awareness raised for this life-saving gift.

Source: Turn the skies pink for Organ Donation Week – NHS Blood and Transplant (nhsbt.nhs.uk)
#ThinkPink #OrganDonation #SaveALife

Migraine Awareness Week
2025-09-22 - 2025-09-28
For this year’s Migraine Awareness Week (22nd-28th September) The Migraine Trust are asking you to join them in their campaign for #BetterMigraineCare. Help them to raise awareness for the one in seven adults and one in ten children in the UK living with migraine.
#Migraine has been dismissed for too long as “just a headache”, despite it being a complex and debilitating neurological disorder. We know that for those living with migraine it has a significant impact on their quality of life, impacting their mental health, relationships, education and their ability to work.
Join the #BetterMigraineCare conversation on social media and share your experience of living with migraine for #MAW25
#MigraineAwarenessWeek #MoreThanJustAHeadache
Source: Migraine Awareness Week 2025 – The Migraine Trust

Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning
2025-09-26
The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, held annually on the last Friday of September, is a major fundraising event organised by #MacmillanCancerSupport in the UK. This event brings people together over coffee and cake to raise funds for those affected by cancer, with the proceeds supporting Macmillan’s vital services.
Since its inception in 1990, the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning has grown into one of the largest and most successful charity events, with participants hosting coffee mornings in homes, offices, schools, and community centres across the UK and beyond.
The concept is simple yet powerful: invite friends, family, colleagues, or neighbours to enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of cake, while making a donation to Macmillan Cancer Support. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps provide essential medical, emotional, and practical support to individuals and families facing cancer. The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is a heart-warming event that not only raises money but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity in the fight against cancer.
Participating in the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is a meaningful way to make a difference. Whether you’re baking, hosting, or simply attending, your involvement helps ensure that Macmillan can continue to be there for those who need it most. The event also provides an opportunity to reflect on the impact of cancer and to show support for loved ones who have been affected. With each cup of coffee poured, participants contribute to a cause that touches countless lives, making the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning an event of compassion, hope, and action.
Source:
World’s Biggest Coffee Morning | Awareness Days
Charity Coffee Morning | Macmillan Coffee Morning

ADHD Awareness Month
2025-10-01 - 2025-10-31
This October is ADHD Awareness Month. Difficulty with attention, concentration, memory, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and social skills — these are among the signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which affects millions of people.
ADHD Awareness Month, sponsored by the Attention Deficit Disorder Association, highlights the latest research and clinical studies with the goal of bringing more effective treatments. Its guiding principle is that life can be better for those with #ADHD and for those who love or work with someone with ADHD.

It affects a wide variety of people
No demographic is immune from ADHD. It’s found in people of all ages and backgrounds. Nearly 10 % of children will be diagnosed with ADHD and more than 4 % of adults will exhibit symptoms.

It’s genetic
No one is to blame for ADHD. It’s a brain-based disorder that is often genetic. Family history can can play a role in children who are diagnosed. Prenatal risk is a factor — along with environmental toxins.

ADHD contributes to other problems
They include the loss of productivity at work or school, relationship problems, obesity, and legal troubles.
The best way to change people’s views about ADHD is to let them know: it’s not about somebody else, it’s about someone they know.

Source: ADHD AWARENESS MONTH (nationaltoday.com)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month
2025-10-01 - 2025-10-31
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take the time to #KnowYourNormal. It’s always best to get anything unusual checked by a doctor early on.
The month aims to promote screening and reduce the risk of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. Known best for its pink theme color, the month features a number of campaigns and programs designed to:

support people diagnosed with breast cancer, including those with metastatic breast cancer

educate people about breast cancer risk factors

encourage women to go for regular breast cancer screening starting at age 40 or earlier, depending on personal breast cancer risk

raise money for breast cancer research

According to the NHS, you should contact your GP if you encounter any of the following:

a new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
a discharge of fluid from either of your nipples
a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
a change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness
a rash (like eczema), crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around your nipple
a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

Black History Month
2025-10-01 - 2025-10-31
The ethos of Black History Month is to educate people on the achievements and contributions African and Caribbean heritage peoples have made to the UK’s history and culture.
​Black History Month UK was the brainchild of Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, a special projects officer at the Greater London Council. He wanted to boost the self-esteem of Black British children and young adults by educating on them on the achievements of Black people living in the UK.
The month has since evolved into a celebration of black history and culture that spans across multiple countries!
The theme for the month is ‘Legacies with Action: Understanding 60 Years of Change and Challenge.’ 2025 marks 60 years since the UK’s first Race Relations Act — a landmark moment in the ongoing journey towards racial justice and equality.
​
#BHM2025 #BlackHistoryMonth
Source: IBHM-UK|Black History Month UK 2025 Theme – Legacies of Action

World Animal Day
2025-10-04
World Animal Day is an annual event on the 4th of October, celebrating #AnimalRights and welfare across the globe. It’s an important day and has been marked since 1925, with a growing international community striving to end the needless suffering of all animals. World Animal Day is celebrated yearly on October 4th to align with the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology and animals.
By increasing awareness and improving education worldwide, those involved are helping to create a space recognising wild and farmed animals as sentient beings with thoughts, feelings, and individual personalities. Their welfare and treatment must reflect this.
With its international reach, many people around the world celebrate #WorldAnimalDay in different ways. Businesses and individuals can give a voice to animals by celebrating World Animal Day in various ways, whether that’s through a fundraising event for charities supporting protection efforts, a goods donation drive or education sessions, there are so many options for everyone to get involved.

Source: World Animal Day | World Animal Protection

Grandparents Awareness Day
2025-10-05
When is Grandparents’ Day in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, Grandparents’ Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of October. In 2025, it’ll be celebrated on 5th October.
Grandparents come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: the love and pride they have for their grandchildren. Being a grandparent is an important role and it’s only fitting that the world gives a little back one day each year on Grandparents’ Day.
So what is Grandparents’ Day?
Grandparents’ Day is a day dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the important contribution made by grandparents to their families. It is an opportunity for families to show their appreciation, gratitude and respect for the older generation.
Families can celebrate by spending time together, sharing stories and encouraging some quality, precious time between grandparents and their grandchildren.
It will be joyous for many, but it’ll also be a sad time for others too, as we reflect on the grandparents we’ve loved and lost.
While it’s not as widely celebrated as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, Grandparents’ Day is increasing in popularity.
The importance of Grandparents’ Day is to spend some quality time with your family. Gifts and surprises are lovely, but this holiday is all about uniting the two generations and sharing some love and knowledge.

Source: What Is Grandparents’ Day and When Is It in the UK? | SunLife

Dyslexia Awareness Week
2025-10-06 - 2025-10-12
Dyslexia is a neurological difference and can have a significant impact during education, in the workplace and in everyday life. As each person is unique, so is everyone’s experience of dyslexia. It can range from mild to severe, and it can co-occur with other specific learning difficulties. It usually runs in families and is a life-long condition.
It is important to remember that there are positives to thinking differently. Many dyslexic people show strengths in areas such as reasoning and in visual and creative fields.
The theme for the week will be Dyslexia: Raising the Volume.
Every story is different – showcasing the diversity of the dyslexic community and highlighting that everyone’s experience of dyslexia is unique. 10% of the population are dyslexic – that’s over 6.7 million stories to tell.
A strong opening sets the scene – raising awareness of the importance of early identification and intervention to ensure that every person with dyslexia can flourish.
It’s never too late to change your story – highlighting how the BDA can provide support and signposting to help dyslexic people begin a new chapter.
In the spirit of breaking through the barriers of #Dyslexia, we’d like to share methods for supporting people with dyslexia. According to the NHS, the following methods are how best to support a child with dyslexia:

occasional 1-to-1 teaching or lessons in a small group with a specialist teacher
phonics (a way of teaching children to identify and process the smaller sounds that make up words) combined with other techniques
technology like computers and speech-recognition software that may make it easier for your child to read and write when they’re a bit older

Source: NHS
Source: Dyslexia Awareness Week – British Dyslexia Association (bdadyslexia.org.uk)

World Sight Day
2025-10-09
World Sight Day is 9th October 2025, and focuses the world’s attention on the importance of eye care in young people and inspiring children everywhere to love their eyes.
Together, The International Agency of the Prevention of Blindness are creating a world where every child has eye health that is accessible, available and affordable.
Starting with a groundswell of young people who are inspired to make their vision a priority. A generation of children who have all the information they need to protect their eyes and, crucially, take the steps needed to look after their vision – from reducing screen time and placing importance on being outside through to seeking help for any ailments and discomfort.
They campaign to ensure that children not only understand the importance of caring for their eye health but are also free from the weight of any social stigma associated with wearing glasses and other corrective treatments.
Through these efforts, governments and those of influence are listening like never before – recognising that early intervention and regular eye health is critical to unlocking education opportunities and future economic potential.
Join them and millions of children globally in making the case loudly and repeatedly that eye health in young people is not an optional extra. It is vital to everything.
This would be a good time to get your eyes checked. The doctor will examine the condition of the blood vessels in your retina and check the overall functioning of your eyes and vision. Go to your nearest eye clinic and also motivate your family members and friends to get their eyes checked.
#LoveYourEyes #EyeHealth #IAPB
Source: World Sight Day – International Agency of the Prevention of Blindness (iapb.world)

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day
2025-10-11
World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2025 is today and is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about hospice and palliative care, essential services that improve the quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. This day highlights the compassionate care provided by hospices and palliative care providers and advocates for access to these services worldwide. As World Hospice and Palliative Care Day approaches, let’s explore the significance of this day, its objectives, and how you can participate in promoting the importance of hospice and palliative care.
What is World Hospice and Palliative Care Day ?
World Hospice and Palliative Care Day is a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the crucial role of hospice and palliative care in providing relief, comfort, and support to individuals with serious illnesses. Hospice and palliative care focus on enhancing the quality of life by addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, allowing patients to live their remaining days with dignity and as pain-free as possible.
How to get involved with World Hospice and Palliative Care Day ?
Participating in World Hospice and Palliative Care Day allows you to support the principles of compassionate care and advocate for better access to hospice and palliative services. Here are some impactful ways to get involved:

Learn About Hospice and Palliative Care: Take the time to educate yourself about the importance of hospice and palliative care and their impact on patients and families.
Support Palliative Care Organizations: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that provide palliative care services or advocate for palliative care access.
Advocate for Access: Advocate for policies and initiatives that ensure individuals have access to hospice and palliative care services when needed.
Share Stories: Share stories of individuals who have benefited from hospice and palliative care to raise awareness about their positive impact.
Host Awareness Events: Organize or attend events, seminars, or workshops related to hospice and palliative care in your community.
Engage on Social Media: Use social media platforms to spread awareness about World Hospice and Palliative Care Day and the importance of these services.
Participate in Fundraising: Support fundraising efforts that aim to improve access to hospice and palliative care services.

By participating in World Hospice and Palliative Care Day you contribute to the global effort to improve the lives of individuals facing life-limiting illnesses and ensure they receive the care and support they deserve.
#WorldHospiceAndPalliativeCareDay #HospiceCare #PalliativeCare #QualityOfLife #AccessToCare #CompassionateCare #SupportPatients
Source: World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2025 | October 11, 2025 | Awareness Days

National Coming Out Day
2025-10-11
National Coming Out Day is an annual celebration which takes place on 11 October every year.
Over the last few decades since National Coming Out Day was first recognised, we’ve seen huge progress for the LGBTQ+ community, with legislation on same-sex marriage, discrimination laws, and educational reforms all helping to protect and support LGBTQ+ people.
However, these legal developments don’t mean that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is over. In the UK, we continue to see LGBTQ+ people suffer from attacks, hate, and abuse. Across the world, LGBTQ+ people are still campaigning for laws and attitudes alike to change. For many, coming out can be dangerous – or simply not an option.
National Coming Out Day isn’t a day to force LGBTQ+ people to come out, or to shame people who haven’t done so. It’s a day to celebrate the beauty of being true to yourself, for having the courage to share an important part of your life with others, and for celebrating those who may come out to you.
Source: Stonewall

Wear It Pink Awareness Day
2025-10-24
Wear It Pink is an annual fundraising event held in October to support breast cancer awareness and research. Organised by Breast Cancer Now, the UK’s largest breast cancer charity, Wear It Pink encourages individuals, schools, and businesses to wear something pink and raise funds to support life-saving research and treatments for breast cancer. It’s one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK, bringing people together in solidarity to help those affected by breast cancer.
Participants are encouraged to get creative by hosting pink-themed events, wearing pink clothing, and raising awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection. The funds raised during Wear It Pink go directly towards funding research, providing support services, and advocating for better breast cancer care.
Here are some social media content ideas to engage your audience on Wear It Pink:

Share tips for hosting a pink-themed fundraising event at work or school.
Encourage followers to wear pink and post a photo using a dedicated hashtag.
Highlight the importance of breast cancer research and how donations make a difference.
Post stories of breast cancer survivors and their journeys.
Share facts about breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options.
Create a poll asking followers if they plan to participate in Wear It Pink this year.
Highlight the role of fundraising in advancing breast cancer treatments and care.
Post about how individuals can get involved and donate to breast cancer research.
Share inspiring quotes from breast cancer advocates and survivors.
Encourage followers to spread the word about breast cancer awareness and participate in Wear It Pink.

#WearItPink #BreastCancerAwareness #FightBreastCancer #PinkForACause

Source: Wear It Pink | Awareness Days

National Pumpkin Day
2025-10-26
National Pumpkin Day is observed on October 26th to celebrate one of the most beloved symbols of #Autumn.
As soon as October arrives, pumpkins are found everywhere from food to drinks and even as decorations.
People visit pumpkin patches to find their perfect pumpkins to carve for #Halloween and walk around sipping their pumpkin spice lattes. Pumpkin pies are an essential Thanksgiving staple for Americans as pumpkins represent everything cosy and loved about Autumn.

Pumpkins Trivia

Pumpkins come in many different colours like orange, pink, white, red, green, and even blue pumpkins! They also come in different sizes, one of the smallest varieties being called the ‘Jack-be-little’.
The world’s heaviest pumpkin was grown in Italy in 2021. It was over 17ft in circumference and weighed 1226kg, the equivalent of an average of ten baby elephants!
The most expensive pumpkin seed was bought for £1250 (or $1,481 in Aug 2022). It was taken from a world record-breaking pumpkin and bought by the company Thompson & Morgan in the hope of breaking a new record.
Illinois is the state that produces the most pumpkins in the USA. The city of Morton IL is known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World since it has a factory responsible for packaging 85% of the world’s canned pumpkins.
According to a survey, pumpkin is America’s favourite Thanksgiving pie filling, with 36% of people preferring it other fillers. Pecan pie came in second place with 17%.

Source: National Pumpkin Day | October 26 – Calendarr

Befriending Week
2025-11-01 - 2025-11-07
Befriending Week is the national campaign celebrating and raising awareness of befriending and the positive impact it has on individuals and communities. Befriending Week theme for 2025 is Collaboration and Partnership.

During the week, lets invite those in the befriending sector to reflect on their achievements over the previous year, thank volunteers and staff, celebrate their service users, and share their message with stakeholders, government and the public.

Befriending Week is also an opportunity to look into the future by raising awareness of how befriending helps to tackle isolation and create community connections, in-person and at a distance.

This year’s #BefriendingWeek offers an opportunity to show gratitude to all of the fantastic #Befrienders who make such a massive difference in the life of people who have become isolated.

Do you have any befriending stories? Please share with us in the comments.

#Befriending #ReduceIsolation #PeopleHelpingPeople

Befriending Week — Befriending Networks

National Stress Awareness Day
2025-11-05
National Stress Awareness Day, on every first Wednesday in November — November 5th this year — is 24 hours of reinforcing the fact that you’re not doing yourself a favour by stressing about situations you can’t control. In fact, according to science, chronic stress leads to impaired cognitive and physiological functions. Would you want to age before your time? Absolutely not! On this day, let’s learn together to hone our ability to choose one thought over another and let the stress ebb away.
But it’s not just about one day. Stress management and reduction should be a constant practice so you can completely remove stress from your life. While we don’t really get enough time to think about it any other day, use this day to find out where and why you get most of your stress from. Is it from your workplace or family, or have you got a general habit to worry about little things? Find the stressful areas and plan a course of action to solve them.
Ways to deal with stress include:

Breathing exercises
Practising mindfulness
Getting a good night’s sleep
Writing down the things that make you stressed

Source: NHS

Find out more from:
International Stress Management Association: https://isma.org.uk/
Stress Management Society: https://www.stress.org.uk/

Odd Socks Day
2025-11-10
Odd Socks Day is celebrated each year at the start of Anti-Bullying Week.
It is intended to give children and adults alike the opportunity to express themselves and celebrate their individuality! Moreover, there is no pressure to wear the latest fashion or to buy expensive costumes. Taking part is made simple and spreads a great message of diversity and acceptance to combat the harmful impact of #Bullying.
#AntiBullyingWeek #OddSocksDay

Find out more here: https://anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week/odd-socks-day/what-odd-socks-day

Anti-Bullying Week
2025-11-10 - 2025-11-14
The theme for this year’s Anti-Bullying Week is “Power for Good.”
The theme of Power for Good has come about following consultation with teachers and pupils by the Anti-Bullying Alliance which coordinates Anti-Bullying Week every year in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Teachers and children wanted a theme that empowered them to do something positive to counter the harm and hurt that bullying causes.
Following the success of the campaign in 2024 – when over 80% of schools marked the week, reaching over 7.5 million children and young people – this year, we’ll empower children and young people to use their Power for Good to speak out, support others, and build a world where kindness wins.
The week will also include Odd Socks Day on Monday 10th November, where adults and children wear odd socks to celebrate what makes us all unique.
This Anti-Bullying Week let’s come together to have discussions about what bullying means to us, how banter can turn into something more hurtful, and what we can do to stop bullying.
Together, we can use our Power for Good to end bullying — for good.
Source: Anti-Bullying Week 2025: Power for Good
#ReachOut #AntiBullyingWeek #MakeANoiseAboutBullying #ChooseRespect

Remembrance Day
2025-11-11
Remembrance Day is a solemn observance in the UK that remembers the sacrifice of those who fought and died in World War I and in other wars. It is observed on 11 November each year to commemorate the Armistice that ended the First World War.
The main thing people do is to observe two minutes of silence at 11am in honour of the sacrifice made by so many. There are also parades, memorial services and church services On a national level, Remembrance Day is observed through a ceremony on Whitehall Road in London.
It is traditional to wear poppies on Remembrance Day. Today, most wear plastic ones instead of real ones, and these can be purchased for a donation to the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal.
All British Commonwealth countries also observe Remembrance Day. The holiday is sometimes also called Armistice Day or Poppy Day.
Remembrance Sunday in the UK is always held on the second Sunday in November each year.

Source: Remembrance Day 2023, 2024 and 2025 – PublicHolidays.co.uk

World Kindness Day
2025-11-13
World Kindness Day is an international holiday that was formed in 1998, to promote #Kindness throughout the world and is observed annually on November 13 as part of the World Kindness Movement. It is observed in many countries including the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia and the U.A.E.
#WorldKindnessDay presents us with the opportunity to reflect upon one of the most important and unifying human principles. On a day devoted to the positive potential of both large and small acts of kindness, try to promote and diffuse this crucial quality that brings people of every kind together.
The purpose of World Kindness Day as outlined by the World Kindness Movement is “to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us.” Since its creation more than two decades ago, the day has achieved truly global notice; events associated with the day have attracted participants from every inhabited continent. These have included activities such as concerts, dance mobs, and the distribution of “kindness cards.”
The objective of World Kindness Day is to spread kindness with small gestures. The main tradition of the day is to be kind and to try and encourage kindness to prevail over hatred. Whether it’s helping out someone with chores, taking the time out to ask how someone is doing, or complimenting someone, the name of the game is kindness, and we all have it in us.
Source: World Kindness Day 2022. What is it exactly? How is it observed?

Transgender Day of Remembrance
2025-11-20
Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) was started in 1999 by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to honour the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. The vigil commemorated all the transgender people lost to violence since Rita Hester’s death, and began an important tradition that has become the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance.
“Transgender Day of Remembrance seeks to highlight the losses we face due to anti-transgender bigotry and violence. I am no stranger to the need to fight for our rights, and the right to simply exist is first and foremost. With so many seeking to erase transgender people — sometimes in the most brutal ways possible — it is vitally important that those we lose are remembered, and that we continue to fight for justice.”- Transgender Day of Remembrance founder Gwendolyn Ann Smith
Source: Glaad

Find Out More: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transgender_Day_of_Remembrance

Homelessness Awareness Week
2025-12-01 - 2025-12-07
Homelessness Awareness Week, held annually in December, is a vital initiative that shines a spotlight on the issues faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. The week promotes understanding, compassion, and action, encouraging communities to work together to address the root causes of homelessness and support those affected.
Organisations, charities, and local councils often host events such as fundraising drives, volunteer initiatives, and educational workshops to raise awareness. These efforts highlight the importance of safe and stable housing, mental health support, and access to essential services in breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Homelessness Awareness Week is also an opportunity to challenge stereotypes and advocate for policy changes that address systemic issues. By amplifying the voices of those with lived experiences, the week fosters empathy and encourages meaningful engagement to create lasting solutions.
#HomelessnessAwarenessWeek #EndHomelessness #SupportTheHomeless #HousingForAll #CommunityCare #AffordableHousing
Source: Homelessness Awareness Week | Awareness Days

National Grief Awareness Week
2025-12-02 - 2025-12-08
National Grief Awareness Week is a time to raise awareness of the impact of #Grief and #Bereavement.
The bereaved often have to hide their grief from others. Sometimes it is from their friends and family as they do not want to burden them. Sometimes it is from their colleagues at work. Please look out for them, check they are okay, in the early days and ongoing. They may look alright, they may be going to work, but deep inside they could be struggling and just need your support and understanding.
We are often afraid to mention the person’s name who has died. We think we will upset our friend or family member, but it is generally the opposite. By saying their name, remembering them and talking about them, you are helping to share your love and affection for that person. This is very important and will help those grieving to know that you will help to keep their memory alive.
There is a myth that you ‘get over’ grief. That you ‘move on’. You don’t. You move forward with your grief, but you may be affected by a bereavement throughout your whole life. Often after the funeral, people leave and things go ‘back to normal’. This is the time when the bereaved most need support, when they feel alone and isolated. We need to understand that there are triggers that may come from nowhere that will affect them in the weeks, months and years after the death.
So lets normalise talking about grief, to ensure grief becomes an easier topic to discuss and lets raise the profiles of #Charities and the breadth of support we have in the UK offering tailored help for any bereavement.

This year the theme is “Growing with Grief”

Losing a loved one feels like an ending in so many ways, but in time, it can also become the ground from which something new begins. After that loss, we can’t go back to who we were, but instead, we can grow into someone new shaped by love, memories, and resilience. This growth doesn’t erase the pain, but it allows HOPE to return. We may even become more present, more compassionate, more aware of what truly matters in life.
#BetterTogether #NGAW2025 #GrowingWithGrief
Source: National Grief Awareness Week (thegoodgrieftrust.org)

Giving Tuesday
2025-12-02
Giving Tuesday, celebrated the Tuesday after Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is a global day of generosity where individuals, businesses, and organisations are encouraged to give back to their communities through donations, volunteer work, and acts of kindness. This day is all about shifting the focus from consumerism to compassion, reminding everyone that the holiday season is a time to help those in need.
The Giving Tuesday movement, which started in 2012, has grown into a worldwide celebration of generosity. It’s an opportunity for everyone to support causes that matter to them, whether through financial donations, volunteering time, or raising awareness. From local charities to global initiatives, Giving Tuesday offers endless opportunities to make a positive impact.
It’s a day to reflect on what we can give, not just financially, but in terms of time, kindness, and resources to uplift others. Businesses often join in by matching donations, sponsoring charitable events, or organising volunteer activities for their employees.
#Volunteer #GivingTuesday #GiveBack #DonateForGood #GlobalDayOfGiving #SupportLocalCharities #GenerosityMatters #SpreadKindness
Source: Giving Tuesday | Awareness Days

Christmas Jumper Day
2025-12-11
Each year in December, the UK celebrates Christmas Jumper Day.
The aim of the day is to raise awareness and funding for children in need across the world. Aside from affording these children the fundamentals that they need to live, the day allows children to still see the wonderful side of our planet and retain the strength of their imagination.
#ChildrenInNeed #XmasJumperDay #SaveTheChildren
Source: Christmas Jumper Day 2025 | Save the Children UK

Festival of Winter Walks
2025-12-20 - 2026-01-04
The Festival of Winter Walks is an annual event that encourages people to embrace the beauty of #Winter by going for walks in nature. It’s a celebration of the great outdoors during the colder months and an opportunity to connect with nature, stay active, and enjoy the crisp, winter air.
The Festival of Winter Walks is a time to explore the tranquillity and serenity of winter landscapes. It encourages individuals and families to bundle up, step outside, and go for refreshing walks in parks, forests, and scenic areas.
Celebrating the Festival of Winter Walks is all about embracing the magic of winter landscapes and enjoying the benefits of outdoor activity. Here are some ways to celebrate:

Plan a Winter Hike: Choose a nearby nature trail, park, or woodland area and plan a winter hike with friends or family.
Explore Local Scenery: Take the time to explore the beauty of your local surroundings, whether it’s a snowy forest or a frosty beach.
Stay Warm: Bundle up in warm clothing, wear comfortable boots, and bring along hot beverages or snacks to enjoy during your walk.
Birdwatching: Winter is a great time for birdwatching, as many species of birds can be spotted more easily without the foliage of spring and summer.
Photography: Capture the stunning winter landscapes with your camera and share your photos with friends and on social media

#WinterWalks #FestivalOfWinterWalks #NatureExploration #WinterWonderland #OutdoorAdventure #StayActive
Source: Festival Of Winter Walks 2025 | December 20, 2025 | Awareness Days

National Robin Day
2025-12-21
Did you know there is an annual awareness day for robins? National Robin Day is on the 21st December, created by the charity Songbird Survival in 2016 as a way to raise awareness of not only robins but also all small garden birds who may struggle to survive the cold winter months.
Winter can be a particularly difficult time for the UK’s garden birds. Many of their natural food sources such as insects and seeds are not available, and they often rely on the food we put out for them to give them enough energy to get through winter and prepare for the breeding season ahead.
#NationalRobinDay was set up to inspire collective action to help save our garden birds and not take for granted the wonderful wildlife that surrounds us.
#Conservation #GardenBirds #SaveOurGardenBirds
Source: https://www.birdspot.co.uk/a-little-bird/events/national-robin-day-help-save-our-garden-birds

Christmas Day
2025-12-25
Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but also a time when many people feel lonely and isolated. Loneliness can affect anyone, at any age, and it can have a serious impact on our health and wellbeing. According to the Office for National Statistics, almost one in 14 people aged 16 or over in Great Britain say they are lonely, up 40% since last spring1.
That’s why we at aDoddle.org are working hard to connect people and communities across the UK. We believe that everyone deserves to have an easy and accessible way to find help, give help and get connected locally. Our online platform allows you to search for local charities, community groups, events, resources and opportunities to #Volunteer that match your needs and interests. Whether you are looking for support, friendship, or a way to make a difference, you can find it on aDoddle.org.
This #Christmas, we invite you to join us in our mission to #EndLoneliness and build stronger, more resilient communities. You can start by visiting our website and exploring the amazing organisations and projects that are happening near you. You can also follow us on social media and share your stories of how you are connecting with others and making a positive impact. And you can help us spread the word by telling your friends and family about aDoddle.org and encouraging them to get involved.
Together, we can make finding and connecting with local support and opportunities “a doddle” for everyone. Together, we can make this Christmas a little less lonely and a lot more festive. Thank you for being part of our aDoddle community and we wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year! 🎄🎁🎉

#ConnectingCommunities #PeopleHelpingPeople #AdoddleIt

National Call a Friend Day
2025-12-28
National Call A Friend Day, celebrated on 28th December, is a heart-warming reminder to reconnect with friends and loved ones. In the hustle of everyday life, it’s easy to lose touch, and this day encourages everyone to reach out, share a conversation, and nurture meaningful relationships. A simple phone call can rekindle connections, bring joy, and show friends they’re appreciated.
National Call A Friend Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate friendship and the importance of staying connected, even with those we don’t see every day.
Reconnect with loved ones on National Call A Friend Day with these thoughtful content ideas:

Share the emotional benefits of connecting with friends and nurturing relationships.
Encourage followers to call a friend and share their conversation highlights in the comments.
Post a gratitude prompt, inviting followers to reflect on the friends they’re thankful for.
Share conversation starters for reconnecting with friends you haven’t spoken to in a while.
Post tips on maintaining long-distance friendships, fostering connection despite distance.
Share a “Reasons to Call a Friend” list, reminding followers of the power of friendship.
Encourage followers to share a favourite memory with their friends in the comments.
Post a fun poll asking followers how often they call or message their friends.
Share quotes about friendship and connection to inspire followers to reach out.
Suggest hosting a “Virtual Coffee Date” with a friend to catch up from afar.

#CallAFriendDay #ReconnectWithFriends #CelebrateFriendship #StayConnected

Source: National Call a Friend Day | Awareness Days

Dry January
2026-01-01
Alcohol use has been part of different cultures and societies for thousands of years. While many people find that alcohol is an enjoyable part of their lives, it can have a tendency to create some difficulties and even throw their health out of balance. Some of the things people want to avoid may include the calories from alcohol that can create weight gain, as well as the cost involved with drinking alcohol. Taking the month of January to reset and rebuild new, healthy habits is what #DryJanuary is all about.
While the term first made an appearance in the early 2000s, the official day didn’t happen until about a decade later. It all started in 2011 when Emily Robinson signed up to run a half marathon in February and realized she needed to get her body ready during the month of January. Because her training regimen included giving up alcohol, she found that she was sleeping better, losing weight and had more energy.
So the following year, Emily joined Alcohol Change UK and decided to give up drinking for the month of January again. The following year, Alcohol Change UK launched its official celebration of Dry January and the practice has been catching on over the years since then. In 2014, Dry January became a registered trademark by the Alcohol Change UK charity. As it turns out, many people have been finding that Dry January offers a variety of benefits to their lives.
When a group of people who had participated in Dry January were surveyed, it was discovered that the celebration of the day had helped them to establish healthier habits around drinking.
Each year, many of the people who participate in Dry January have considered it to be a positive experience, saying that they have lost weight and are drinking less even six months later. Many of them have dropped from ‘harmful’ categories of drinking to ‘low risk’. In a few countries, like in Czech Republic or Canada, the non-drinking month is actually celebrated as Dry February.
But no matter when it is, the concept is the same – bringing balance and health to thousands of people by helping them reset their drinking habits. *
#AlcoholFree #Sobriety #SoberLife #RecoveryIsPossible #DryJanuary

*Source: https://alcoholchange.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/dry-january
