to have a blanket approach of no contributions to anything/anyone at work?

[PanchoAndLefty]

I am on a low salary but I actually think that I'd feel this way even if I was on a high salary. I like my job but I don't see any of my work colleagues as anything but that, work colleagues. In the past I have built long lasting relationships in jobs, but in my current job that's not the case, and that's fine. I get on with everyone just fine, but I don't consider any of them a mate.

I am sick and tired of forking out for birthdays, mothers to be, leavers and charity fundraisers. I do it out of a feeling of obligation and not because I really want to. The truth is that I resent it and I want to stop altogether.

AIBU?

I contribute a minimum of £2. If it's someone I like then I give more. If it was an occasion for me then I know people would donate.

I just say no across the board. I don't expect anything from anyone either

Well, just say no then - but be prepared to be known as the miserable stingy person who never contributes and for people to judge you (rightly or wrongly).

Yep agree, especially sponsoring peoples ego trips or their children’s

It's fine. It's a contribution, it isn't mandatory.

At our place the e-mail goes around and then literally nobody cares or checks who has or hasn't donated.

I donated to a boss leaving who had been incredible in every single way, I wanted to show my appreciation. I chuck in a couple of quid for people I know at work if I can afford it and don't bother if I don't know them. I think it's a nice thing to do but it's very optional. Some workplaces are so big you'd be spending a significant amount every month which just isn't feasible for many.

Just say sorry, simply cant afford it. You wont be the only one, its just that the others arent brave enough to decline.
These people are not your friends, so you dont have to worry about their opinions of you. Go to work.. do your job... and live your life

YANBU, I stopped contributing years ago. I’m in a small team working with a large team, and what was happening was we in the small team were contributing to the big team’s events but our own team didn’t enjoy these things so it was very uneven.

I’m happy it’s all stopped, and I wouldn’t expect anything for my events. However, my boss is generous and he does ensure the company pays for a decent gift.