Please do something more useful that clapping...

[oatlyexhausted]

There was a piece on Newsnight yesterday, discussing the financial difficulties being faced by charities across the county. A huge range of charities have lost income anticipated from charity shops, events etc.

As a nation we are obviously keen to find a way to 'do our bit', hence the clapping on doorsteps.

Much as I appreciated those working in the NHS and other key industries; is it not better to do something useful for our nation, rather than just making a noise to say thanks?

So please; if you can (and I know that not everyone will be able to), pop your hand in your pocket and make an extra donation to those charities close to your heart. It's not loud, it's not public, your neighbours won't know you've done it, but it will make a damn bigger difference.

Does it have to be instead of? Why not both?

Incidentally I’ve seen wish lists set up on Amazon by hospital staff so people can contribute what they can and know it’ll be immediately useful. Things like toiletries for patients and bumbags for staff. I think that’s a great idea.

Some of us have lost our livelihoods in this and don’t know how we will survive however long this takes due to the financial impacts let alone the virus itself.

Some of us have friends or relatives in hospitals suffering from the virus.

Some of us have neighbours who are doctors, teachers and other frontline workers who are going out on a daily basis, putting both themselves and their families at increases risk of catching this virus but they go out regardless to keep others safe.

So yes, whilst I agree that those who can offer a more significant financial helping hand to those who need it most, should do so.
I will continue to clap on my doorstep, not so my neighbours can see me, but because it’s the only thing that I can do right now to show my appreciation to everyone who is taking such a risk to keep the rest of us safe. A risk that I, personally, would be scared shitless to take myself.

Donate to staff welfare appeals if you can, give blood, stay at home and don't go out unless you need food/medicine, exercise at home.

All more useful than clapping

@Cornettoninja
Does it have to be instead of? Why not both?
Absolutely, it can be both. Personally I'm not a big fan of clapping; I prefer practical solutions, but if people can do both then that would be great.

I don’t understand why people keep bringing up clapping. Why wouldn’t you just say “Please consider donating your time/money” to these causes?

Brits are so weird about any sort of public display.

I am doing useful things as well as clapping.