10:07, 12 January 2026
Words by Zane Dedlow, Videographer and Content Creator, London
Welcome to The Good Guide - your monthly dose of feel-good ways to get involved, try something new, and start the year on a positive note.
January often feels like a reset. A chance to slow things down, move your body, reconnect with nature, and support causes that really matter. Across the UK, there are plenty of simple ways to do just that - whether you’ve got an hour to spare or you’re looking for something a bit more active.
📍 Nationwide
📅 23–24 January
🔗 https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch
Run by the RSPB, the Big Garden Birdwatch is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey - and over 160,000 people have already signed up this year.
All you need to do is choose one hour over the weekend of 23–24 January and count the birds you see where you live - whether that’s a garden, balcony, local park, or green space.
It’s a gentle, feel-good way to slow down, get outside, and be part of something bigger - while helping protect wildlife across the UK.
📍 London
📅 24-25 January
🔗 https://www.ultrachallenge.com/london-winter-walk
If you’re feeling ready to move a little more after the holidays, the London Winter Walk is a great place to start.
With routes along the Thames and options for different distances, this event raises money for a wide range of UK charities. Whether you go solo or with friends, it’s a motivating way to get fresh air, clear your head, and turn a walk into something meaningful.
📍 London
📅 30 January
🔗 https://thriveldn.co.uk/great-mental-health-day-in-london/
Great Mental Health Day brings together free talks, walks, and community sessions across London, all focused on wellbeing and connection.
It’s a reminder that support is always available - whether you need it yourself or want to be there for someone else. Organisations like Mind, CALM, and Shout continue to offer help throughout the year.
January is one of the toughest months for people facing food insecurity. With rising costs and colder weather, demand for support remains high well beyond the festive season.
Charities like The Trussell Trust and The Felix Project continue to support communities across the UK - providing food, dignity, and hope through the winter months.
Whether you donate food, volunteer your time, or help spread the word, every action makes a difference.
Check out next month’s Good Guide for more positive news, good-news stories, and feel-good ways to give back and stay connected to your community.
