2026-07-21 12:21:40
Putting the kettle on is still Britain’s favourite way of showing someone they care, according to a new study.
More than half of Brits said making someone a cup of tea remains the ultimate act of kindness, ahead of helping elderly neighbours, carrying heavy shopping bags and fixing things around the home.
The poll of 2,000 adults also found 52 per cent believe cooking a meal for someone is one of the most generous gestures.
But the research suggests kindness is evolving across generations.
While Baby Boomers ranked traditional acts such as giving up a seat on public transport (65 per cent), holding doors open (63 per cent) and helping friends move house (62 per cent) among the most meaningful, Gen Z preferred more modern displays of compassion.
Younger adults were more likely to value leaving a positive comment online (38 per cent), sending a voice note to check in on someone (31 per cent) or letting another gym-goer use equipment first (29 per cent).
The research, commissioned by For Goodness Shakes, also found almost nine in 10 (89 per cent) people believe the UK would benefit from more kindness.
TV psychologist Anjula Mutanda said: “It’s fascinating to see how acts of kindness continue to evolve with each generation; but at the core, they all reflect the same hard-wired desire to connect, express support and look out for one another.
“Whether it’s making someone a cup of tea or sending a quick message to check in, it’s often the simplest gestures that can make the biggest difference.
“Just as it is crucial that we nourish ourselves well to be physically healthy, performing acts of kindness also triggers the brain to release ‘feel good’ chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin associated with pleasure and reward, these chemicals play an integral part in helping to boost mood, reduce stress and create a sense of satisfaction.
“So, in doing good, we feel good too!”
Despite 90 per cent believing it’s important to be kind to strangers, 72 per cent admitted they sometimes hesitate because of trust issues, fears of being misunderstood or concerns about personal safety.
More than half also felt people are less kind than they were a decade ago.
Philippa Milburn, brand manager at For Goodness Shakes, said: “The Goodness Exchange is about proving that doing good can feel good too and reminding people that everyday moments of kindness, whether at home, on a walk or on public transport, are more important than ever.”
Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)
