The festive season is almost upon us and with it comes the age-old tradition of Secret Santa in workplaces across the UK. A recent survey conducted by UK Money Bloggers - a network of over 400 personal finance bloggers and influencers - has shed light on the mixed sentiments surrounding this annual ritual.
While 33% of employees are gearing up for the exchange of surprise gifts, a significant 30% would rather opt out. The findings also reveal a staggering £60 million+ in wasted presents, as 36% of participants anticipate giving away the gifts they receive.
Of the 1,167 employees surveyed, 29% admitted to dreading the task of buying gifts for specific colleagues. Similarly, an equal percentage expressed discomfort at the prospect of opening their presents in front of their coworkers. An additional challenge revealed by the survey is the 24% of respondents who have had to buy a gift for a colleague they've never even spoken to.
The pitfalls of Secret Santa don't end there; a whopping 36% of workers have received what they consider to be a 'bad' Secret Santa gift. From used candles to household items like laundry baskets and washing-up gloves, the list of less-than-ideal presents is extensive. Groceries also made their way into the mix, with mouldy Turkish Delight, an apple, mayonnaise, a cabbage, a jar of Bovril and an already-open bag of sweets topping the list of disappointing gifts!
Amidst the rising cost of living, 72% of employees are calling for changes to the traditional workplace Secret Santa. A third (31%) advocate for smaller donation limits, considering the average budget per person was £15.50. Remarkably, 22% expressed a preference for donating that money to charity instead, potentially redirecting an estimated £37 million towards UK charities.
In response to the survey findings and as a compassionate alternative to traditional Secret Santa, Smart Money People and the UK Money Bloggers community have partnered with the children's charity KidsOut. The goal is to shift the focus from mere 'gifting' to impactful 'giving.'
KidsOut is a children's charity dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children across the UK. Many of these children have escaped domestic violence or live in poverty, often leaving their homes in haste and abandoning all their possessions. By encouraging employees to contribute to KidsOut instead of participating in traditional Secret Santa exchanges, the initiative aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
To find out how to donate here.
