Oldham hero celebrated in national campaign with Katie Piper OBE

With the nights drawing in and the weather getting colder, six in ten Brits feel they need a boost of positivity (61%), with three quarters of the nation (75%) feeling their mood is affected by the shorter and chillier days of Autumn and Winter. 

As a result, two fifths have said they feel lonelier in the colder months (42%) as the drop in temperature makes it much harder to interact with people (38%).

A third of Brits state that people smile less during the colder months (33%) – yet a smile goes a longer way when it is dreary outside (33%). 

In fact, the value of a smile is at such an all-time high that it is worth more to the nation than receiving a gift (28%) and getting praise at work (26%).

The research, conducted by biscuit brand Belvita, found that receiving a smile from someone brightens the nation’s day (76%) and makes them feel happier (52%).

The research also found that two thirds admit that the impact of a smile from a stranger equates to the feeling of receiving up to three compliments in one day (64%). 

Six in ten respondents said a simple smile can make them feel more confident (63%) and a third (36%) stated receiving a smile inspires them to do something nice for someone.

As a result of the humble smile, Brits feel empowered to pass the positivity onto their friends (57%), family (55%) and even strangers (23%). 

Belvita has teamed up with Katie Piper OBE – known for her bright smile and incredible work within the scar and burns survivor community – to spread messages of positivity through an uplifting portrait series.

The content celebrates and represents smiles that have sparked community spirit across the UK, from local volunteers to individuals simply doing a good deed.   

The series, shot by world-renowned celebrity portrait photographer, Andy Gotts, features activist and philanthropist Katie and four local heroes who have gone above and beyond in their local communities, spreading positivity as a result of their time and generosity. 

The community heroes featured alongside Katie, include: 

Oyovwe Agatha Kigho, Oldham - Founder of the Widows Empowerment Trust, an organisation that tackles isolation and loneliness facing widows and those in need due to bereavement.

Stefan Simanowitz, London - Founders of “Take One, Leave One’, an innovative initiative helping homeless people and those facing winter hardship, by putting warm clothes on different high streets.

Sam Pritchard, Lancashire - Started the "Cards Fighting Loneliness" initiative, which saw children writing adorable cards for elderly people to reduce social isolation.

Jacky Alder, Brackley - A local wonder woman who cooked, shopped and dog-walked for elderly residents in her community throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Gabriella Sargeant, Belvita Brand Manager, said: “We believe that positive energy can start with the smallest gesture, such as a smile, or an act of kindness from a stranger - which all help to spread positivity from one person to another. 

"Our portrait series champions the smiles of unsung heroes who’ve gone the extra mile for their community, in a bid to spread positivity across the UK.

“We want to keep celebrating these good gestures, so are asking you to help spread positivity by telling us about your hero and smile spreader by heading to our Instagram page.”

Katie Piper OBE said: “We don’t realise the true impact our smiles have on others – it’s a small gesture that can really change someone’s day.

"That’s why I’ve teamed up with Belvita to celebrate the smiles that have helped spread positivity to communities across the country.

"I hope you see the portrait series and are inspired to continue the chain of positivity.” 

Follow the #BelvitaSmileSpreaders hashtag to view the positive portraits.

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