Member Article

Economy makes North East sadder

Research shows a large majority of people in the North East feel less happy now than when the recession started.

The study, on behalf of the CSV (Community Service Volunteers) found that 83% of adults in the region are more unhappy today than they were 12 months ago.

However, the North East has the biggest percentage of people who feel happier than before the recession, at 17%.

The independent research, undertaken by pollsters ICM, shows only 12% of the British population feels happier now than when the economic crisis began.

The study polled more than 2,000 people across Britain and asked them which activities are most likely to make them feel happier.

The research comes in the build-up to CSV Make a Difference Day, which is the UK’s biggest single day of volunteering on 31 October .

The campaign is looking to demonstrate how giving time through volunteering can lift the nation’s spirit when times are tough.

Pete Waterman, one of CSV’s ambassadors said: “The feel good factor from giving time to benefit a cause or other people can be infectious.

“The effect can be caused by something as simple as a ‘random act of kindness’ such as baking a cake for an elderly neighbour or picking up litter on your street through to building shelters for wildlife or having a tea and chat with a homeless person.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .