Published 19th December 2025
As we approach the end of our first year, The Goodwill Revolution has had one of its busiest and most meaningful weeks to date. Whilst the festive season is a time of joy for many, it often highlights the stark reality of crisis, loneliness, and isolation for others.
This week, we were able to step in and support four local families in their times of greatest need. In several of these cases, the individuals had reached out to larger, more established charities first, only to find they were already at capacity or closed for the holidays.
Because of our ‘power in numbers’ and the incredible team formed by our volunteers and donors, we were able to provide the following life-changing support:
Stories of Hope: This Week’s Referrals
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A Safe Start for a Young Family: We supported a family of four moving from overcrowded supported housing into their first permanent tenancy. With a mom managing a serious spinal condition and a 7-month-old baby recently discharged from the hospital, they were facing a move into a bare flat with no appliances. We provided and professionally fitted a new washing machine and cooker, ensuring they had a warm, functional home for their children from day one.
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Restoring Dignity after Domestic Violence: We were contacted regarding a 21-year-old mother-to-be who fled a domestic abuse situation with absolutely nothing. In a final act of control, her former partner had destroyed all of her personal belongings, including the items she had lovingly collected for her unborn baby. To help her rebuild, we provided essential white goods and supermarket vouchers, giving her the stability she needs to prepare for her baby’s arrival in February.
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Reclaiming a Home after Exploitation: We supported a vulnerable adult who had been a victim of ‘cuckooing’ (where criminals take over a person’s home). After the trauma of exploitation, their home was left empty and broken. We provided and installed a new cooker and washing machine to help this survivor reclaim their independence and feel secure in their own space again.
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Relieving the Strain of a Medical Crisis: A local family’s life was turned upside down following a Traumatic Brain Injury. With the father unable to work and the mother working night shifts to balance caregiving with an income, the financial pressure was overwhelming. We provided £300 in supermarket vouchers to ensure the fridge is full and there are gifts under the tree, allowing them to focus on recovery this Christmas.
The Long-Term Impact: An Update on Client A
The power of a donation often goes far beyond the item itself. Earlier this year, we supported Client A, a survivor of domestic violence, by providing a sewing machine to help her find a sense of normality and support her mental health. We recently received this moving update from the professional working with her:
‘Client A was overwhelmed & tearful when receiving her sewing machine. She was overwhelmed at the generosity of someone that ‘has never met me’ & responded ‘Why would they do that for me?’
Since receiving the sewing machine, Client A has been more cheerful in herself & showing her items she has made to accommodation staff. We were able to source some donated material & this was used to make items we displayed on our 16 days of activism campaign. Client A is very popular with other residents by offering alterations & adjustments to their clothing! Thank you Goodwill Revolution for making this happen. Your generosity has made a real difference!’
Reflecting on 2025
Since launching in March 2025, we are proud to have helped 14 individuals and families across our community. We are growing every day, attending key networks like the VCS Health and Social Care Network and the Annual Domestic Abuse Conference to ensure we are reaching those who need us most.
We are also thrilled to announce that we were recently awarded £200 from The Boring Fund, an initiative that helps non-profits cover essential administrative costs. This means your donations can continue to go directly to the people who need them.
Looking Ahead to 2026
How good does it feel to know that, together, we are creating a movement of kindness? Most of our donors give a small amount that they barely notice leaving their accounts, but the collective impact is a Revolution of Goodwill.
As we close for a short festive break to allow our small team of volunteers to recharge, we want to thank you for standing alongside us. We are so excited to see what 2026 holds.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from The Goodwill Revolution Team.
