Small acts of support and kindness can make a big difference to people and communities. Being kind helps to build trust and a sense of safety. Kindness can boost our mood as well as strengthen our social connections.
Giving and receiving from others helps to build a support network. This is important, whatever age we are. Having a kinder culture and support from peers helps us all emotionally.
It’s also important to be kind to ourselves - self-care and self-compassion are not selfish! Having healthy boundaries can help us to manage stress and expectations.
‘Be kind and help create a better world’ is one of the Mental Health Foundation’s best mental health tips backed by research.
Signposts for 'Be Kind' - local support and opportunities
If you’re interested in volunteering then contact Borders Community Action. This is the ‘Third Sector Interface’ (TSI) for the Scottish Borders. They work with charities, social enterprises, community groups and volunteers across the Borders and support the network of Village Halls.
Borders Community Action is the ‘first-stop’ for volunteering opportunities across the Borders and can connect people into a range of different groups, organisations and activities.
Befriending and peer support
If you do have time to volunteer, consider one of the many ‘befriending’ or ‘peer support’ projects in the Borders - they act as a vital lifeline for many people. Ask Borders Community Action about befriending or peer support opportunities.
Peer support groups for mental health and wellbeing. Search for ‘Scottish Borders’ on their website.
Bavs supports communities in the Berwickshire area and has volunteering opportunities on offer.
Useful websites and apps
Ideas about kindness and other resources about happiness.
Use the Volunteer Scotland online database to find an opportunity that suits you
Download Breathing Space’s ‘Little Book of Caring Ways’ for ways to promote kindness for better mental health in Scotland
Prioritise self-care - try to keep to a healthier lifestyle and know about any cancer screening and testing programmes that are relevant to you. Regular screening for bowel, breast and cervical cancer is very important to help catch any changes in your body as early as possible. You must also check yourself regularly and keep an eye out for any changes in your body. If you're worried about cancer, the best person to speak to is your GP
