We are all being asked to make the next year one of kindness by supporting the ’52 weeks of kindness’ campaign.

It encourages everyone to carry out acts of kindness and continue this every week of the year.

It was launched on national Breathing Space Day on 1 February – the day which urges us all to take some ‘breathing space’ and look after our mental wellbeing.

Distress brief intervention programme manager Kevin O’Neill said: “Whether it’s looking out for a neighbour, passing along a good book, taking time to listen or smiling and saying hello to someone new, being kind and compassionate to others also has positive effects on our own mental health.”

A 52 weeks of kindness calendar is available which includes suggestions on acts you could carry out every week of the year.

Kevin continued: “I have seen and heard about many acts of kindness across Lanarkshire from a warm smile from a stranger, comforting words from a member of staff, or unexpected thanks and praise from a colleague – and they can make our day that little bit brighter.

“Kindness can also have positive effects on our relationships by reducing the emotional distance between two people as we naturally connect with people who are kind to us.

“It’s often a lack of kindness which leads to isolation and loneliness, calls to Breathing Space testify to this. We can all make a big difference through little acts of kindness.”

You can find the calendar at: http://breathingspace.scot/media/42261/52-weeks-a5-calendar.pdf