WHILE many will still be shopping for a bargain as Black Friday deals continues, people are being urged to stop and remember that Christmas is not just about bagging the best price – but about giving to good causes.

And to balance the two, next week will see the start of #GivingTuesday, a chance to gift back to those in need.

Bolton NHS Charity, the official charity partner of Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, is one of thousands of organisations taking part in the campaign.

Brought to the UK in 2014 by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), this year #GivingTuesday offers the opportunity to give back to good causes, either by donating to charity, reaffirming commitment to a cause, volunteering time or supporting others by simply helping a friend, neighbour or family member.

As part of its winter campaign, The Small Things, Our Bolton NHS Charity hopes to create a kindness movement and get everyone involved so the kindness is far-reaching and significant.

“We are really excited to be a part of Giving Tuesday,” says Sarah Skinner, Charity Manager, Our Bolton NHS Charity.

“With Christmas around the corner, it serves as a reminder of why charity is so important and many people will be looking for ways they can give back.

“With the community’s help, Our Bolton NHS Charity is able to fund presents for all patients in hospital over Christmas, just one example of the support people can help provide.”

To sprinkle some magic this winter, please text MAGIC to 70580 to donate £5 and show patients and your local NHS colleagues how much they are cared for.

The money donated could fund an activity pouch for a patient with dementia, a well-being bag for staff, a mindfulness support pack for a young person admitted to hospital in a mental health emergency, a present for a child in hospital over Christmas or a reusable water bottle so our hard-working staff can stay hydrated while working in PPE.

A spokesperson for Bolton NHS FT said: “By supporting us on Giving Tuesday, you are part of a team helping Our Bolton NHS Charity go above and beyond for our patients and staff this winter.”