Helping others is not only a good thing to do for them, it is also good for us.

Small acts of kindness or volunteering in your local community can give you a sense of purpose and make you feel happier and more satisfied about life.

Giving to others can be as simple as a thank you, smile or thoughtful gesture. It can include giving time, care, skills, thought or attention.

Giving can take many forms, from small everyday acts to larger commitments.

Today, you could:

Say thank you to someone, for something they have done for you.

Phone a relative or friend who needs support or company.

Ask a colleague how they are and really listen to the answer.

Offer to lend a hand if you see a stranger struggling with bags or a pushchair.

This week, you could:

Arrange a day out for you and a friend or relative.

Offer to help a relative with DIY or a colleague with a work project.

Sign up to a mentoring project, in which you give time and support to someone who will benefit from it.

Volunteer in your local community. That might mean helping out at a local school, hospital or care home.