A momentous week for a Happier UK?

This week saw the first tentative steps made by the UK government to measure ‘that which makes life worthwhile’ as Robert Kennedy so eloquently put it in 1968.  Whilst there are understandable cynics about the governmental motives in measuring our happiness at a time of so much hardship – what lies behind this move is vital.  This could be the beginning of a huge shift, away from a purely economic growth based model, towards a place where what we count our success (and therefore what we measure and value) on aspects of life that matter to real people – namely things like a sense of community, purpose, environment, relationships and fulfilment.  For more on the new ONS measurements see the article by the Director of Action for Happiness Mark Williamson.

Happiness – the success factor.

Happiness fuels success, not the other way around. Most people think that if they become successful, then they'll be happy. But recent discoveries in psychology and neuroscience show that this formula is backward: When we're positive, our brains are more motivated, engaged, creative, energetic, resilient, and productive. To gain this sort of success for yourself, your business or your community, get in touch with us about our organisational change Programme the Happiness Challenge being launched in January.

Volunteering makes you (and us) Happy

Our happy band of volunteers is growing by the week, now being ably coordinated by Tannith Perry.  We’re delighted to be an eclectic bunch, with helpers from Morocco, Spain, France, China, India, USA, Ireland…even Wales. To thank everyone connected we are having a volunteer celebration on Friday January 6th, 7-11 pm at our base at Kuumba. Bring something fun to drink (alcoholic or not). We'll provide the music, some and snacks. You'll get a chance to meet all the other great volunteers, hear updates about each project and tell us what you've been up to. If you know someone who is interested in volunteering or learning more about Happy City, this would be a great night to send them along. 

Human Rights Day on Saturday 10th December marks the 60th Birthday of the Refugee Council.  Bristol as a City of Sanctuary, and home to Bristol Refugee Rights, is at the forefront of this vital work.  Get involved with free trainingin campaigning for justice in the asylum and immigration system. 1pm to 5pm at The Community Hall, St Nicholas of Tolentino Church.  A Public Meeting at 6pm - Human rights, local campaigns and personal stories followed by a Fund-raising party at 7.30pm - Food, entertainment and music. Both events will be at The Welcome Centre, Newton Hall, Newton Street, and will be raising funds for the Hardship Fund (for destitute asylum seekers) and for Legal Fund (solicitors for detainees). Or run your own RefuTea event!

Spot a new way to brighten up advent with a Random Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar – prompting you to do a simple kind act every day until Christmas (ok, you’ve got some catching up to do but it’s never too late to start…)

Spot a pop-up chance to get a resource-lite Christmasat the Red Cross vintage swap shop(11th December at Hamilton House in Stokes Croft). Donate some stuff for free entry then browse the mini market, where you'll be able to get a 50s style makeover (hair & makeup) before a 50's afternoon tea. There's a vintage portrait studio and even ‘Flo Jo’s Upcycling Knicker Making Workshops’ at 12pm & 3pm where you can make your own pair of lovely frilly pants! 

Spot the connection between happy and green. We’ve long known thatHappiness is the carrot not the stick of the green movement. Read about the 10 reasons why here

Spot a last chance to see… Visit the 'Shooting "Youth"' photography exhibitionat Knowle West Media Centre, now extended until Christmas. "Shooting", "Youth". What springs to mind when you read these words? A violent act, or using a camera? A label for young people, or your teenage years? This powerful exhibition by 12 young photographers explores these perceptions and their implications.