The small thing I’m giving up this January (and why it matters all year) 

January has a funny way of making us take stock. We look at our bank statements. Notice subscriptions we forgot about. Question habits that quietly crept in last year. And sometimes, we decide to change just one small thing. That’s where Give Up Give Back comes in.

Give Up Give Back is a simple January challenge: give up a small everyday habit and donate what you would have spent to support families on a low income raising a disabled or seriously ill child.

It’s not about dramatic sacrifices or perfect resolutions. It’s about taking something small – a coffee, a subscription, a weekly treat – and turning it into practical support for families who are under huge pressure every single day.

For many families supported by Family Fund, giving things up isn’t a choice. Heating or food. Travel or essentials. Replacing a broken appliance or going without. These decisions are made every day, not just in January – and winter only makes them harder.

That’s why support this month matters so much.

What could you give up? 

When we started talking about Give Up Give Back this year, the ideas came thick and fast: 

• cancelling a streaming service
• skipping takeaway coffees
• swapping meal deals for packed lunches
• giving up a gym class in favour of a home workout

Nothing huge. Just honest, everyday swaps that most of us could manage for a month. 

And if you want to go further, some people choose to turn that January change into a monthly donation – making a difference not just now, but throughout the year. 

One month can lead to something more

A single donation through Give Up Give Back can help a family right now – with warm clothing, sensory toys, or help covering essential costs. 

And regular support helps Family Fund be there whenever families need it, long after January is over. 

Both matter. Both make a difference.

So, what will you give up?

However you choose to take part – once, monthly, or simply by sharing the idea – you’ll be helping ease daily pressures for families raising disabled and seriously ill children. 

Sometimes, it really is the small things that add up.

If you do take part, here’s how to donate:

You can either donate as you go or save up throughout the month and make a donation online using the ‘Donate’ button (for single or monthly donations), or send your donation directly into our account using the details below: