Thousands of families across the UK are facing immense financial pressure this festive season, with the average household expected to spend around £700 more in December. A staggering three in four parents are already dreading the cost of Christmas lists this year.
Where to Find Free and Low-Cost Christmas Gifts
To help ease this burden, the free debt advice provider Money Wellness has highlighted nine key avenues for parents to find free or low-cost gifts, ensuring the magic of Christmas remains without breaking the bank.
Charity Toy Appeals and Banks
Lidl Christmas Toy Bank: Until 15 December, customers can donate unopened toys in-store. In partnership with Neighbourly, Lidl ensures these gifts reach local children via charities, food banks, and community groups.
Cash for Kids Mission Christmas: This is one of the UK's largest festive toy appeals, providing presents for children who might otherwise go without. Donations can be made at drop-off points nationwide. Families are identified through schools, community groups, and social workers, who must apply on their behalf.
Family Action - Christmas Toy Appeal 2025: This national charity delivered over 15,000 presents last Christmas. Families can request a referral by contacting the charity directly or through a partner organisation like a local children's centre.
The Salvation Army's Christmas Present Appeal: This organisation assists thousands of families, distributing more than 68,000 gifts across the UK and Ireland. They welcome new, unwrapped toys for all ages. Families can reach out to their local Salvation Army centre or be referred by schools or health visitors.
Spirit of Christmas Toy Bank: Based in Yorkshire, this festive shop and toy bank allows families, usually referred via schools, to select a book and a toy for each child to wrap and take home.
Alternative Support and Savings
Grants: Debt experts recommend using tools like the Turn2Us Grants checker to find support for basic needs, which can free up funds for Christmas presents.
Toy Libraries: With over 1,000 toy libraries across the UK, children can borrow toys. Many offer free memberships for low-income families and are often based in community centres or libraries.
Toy-Sharing Subscriptions: Services like Whirli allow families to swap toys through the post for a monthly fee, which can be more cost-effective than constant new purchases.
Toy Sales: Money Wellness experts also advise keeping an eye out for pre-Christmas discounts from popular brands to help spread the cost of the holiday.
