Issue of the day Banning ‘unnecessary gifting’

AS the cost-of-living crisis escalates and Christmas looms, many are turning to DIY gifts and “services” for presents, as well as DIY decorations, as money expert Martin Lewis issues a plea to “ban” unnecessary gifting.

“Services” for gifts?

It is a trend that has been boosted in popularity due to the financial constraints of life as 2022 draws to a close, where, rather than buying someone something from a shop or online, you give them the “gift” of your time and talents.

Such as?

Trending on social media platform Tiktok, DIY coupons for this Christmas are a popular theme, with “tokens” for loved ones including the likes of “one free car wash”, as well as “one free week of being waited on hand and foot” and “cleaning one room a day”. Other ideas include gifting your talents, so if you are good at doing nails, gifting a manicure to a friend, or if you are an exercise buff, going for a walk or fitness session with a friend.

What else?

DIY gifts are a huge trend this year with thousands of social media users coming up with their own ideas, ranging from simple homemade cakes and treats, to arts and crafts.

It’s not just gifts?

TV presenter and social media influencer, Stacey Solomon, is leading the way toward a “thrifty Christmas” on her Instagram by showing her five million followers how to make their own decorations, including paper snowflakes. The DIY fan and host of upcoming BBC show Craft Your Own Christmas, said: “There’s no better feeling than giving someone the perfect gift, especially when it’s one I’ve made at home. DIY gifts mean so much more and save a bit of money too, as do hand-crafted decorations which we love making for our tree. I can’t wait to share my Christmas gifting and decorating tips and tricks with everyone at home, helping make this Christmas extra special without breaking the bank.”

What does Martin Lewis say?

The financial expert made what is now an annual plea to Brits to “not ruin your lives for Christmas”. He said: “Let’s work together to ban unnecessary Christmas presents.” He recommends a “pre-nup” of sorts – a “pre-christmas no-unnecessary-present pact”. He said: “I don’t think it has ever felt more pertinent and personal than it has this year, amidst a cost of living crisis when many people are struggling. And so I think what I would ask that we all try and do is when you are thinking about somebody, giving somebody a gift this year, ask yourself truly: is my gift a help or a hindrance? And if it’s a help, give it with joy and give it with love. And if it’s a hindrance...stop.”