A nationwide campaign encouraging people to give a thumbs up to strangers launched across the UK today, aiming to spread positivity and combat loneliness. Organised by the mental health charity Mind, the initiative invites participants to offer a simple thumbs up gesture to passersby, sparking connections and brightening days. The campaign, which kicks off on Mental Health Awareness Week, hopes to reach millions, with over 5,000 community groups, workplaces, and schools already signed up to participate. Studies show that small acts of kindness can significantly improve mental well-being, with Mind citing that 60% of adults in the UK feel loneliness affects their daily lives. The charity urges people to share their thumbs up moments on social media using the hashtag #ThumbsUpUK to amplify the campaign’s impact.
Thumbs Up Campaign Kicks Off Nationwide Today

The Thumbs Up Campaign launches nationwide today, aiming to promote positivity and mental well-being across communities. Organisers expect thousands to participate in the inaugural event, which encourages individuals to perform random acts of kindness and share their experiences online.
The campaign’s founder, Sarah Johnson, announced the launch at a press conference yesterday. “We want to create a wave of positivity that ripples through every corner of the country,” she said. Johnson initiated the campaign after noticing a rise in mental health issues post-pandemic.
Participants are urged to give a thumbs up to strangers, pay for the next person’s coffee, or simply offer a compliment. Each act of kindness should be shared on social media with the hashtag #ThumbsUpCampaign. Organisers hope to track the campaign’s reach and impact through these posts.
Local businesses and community groups have shown overwhelming support for the initiative. Over 500 organisations have registered as official supporters, pledging to encourage their staff and customers to take part. The campaign has also gained traction online, with more than 10,000 people expressing interest on social media platforms.
Mental health charities have welcomed the campaign, highlighting the importance of community support in improving well-being. A spokesperson for Mind, a leading mental health charity, stated, “Initiatives like this can make a real difference in fostering connections and reducing feelings of isolation.” The charity has shared resources to help participants understand the mental health benefits of kindness.
The Thumbs Up Campaign will run for a month, culminating in a national event on 30th April. Organisers plan to announce the total number of acts of kindness recorded and share stories from participants. They hope the campaign will become an annual event, continuing to spread positivity nationwide.
Key Details of the Thumbs Up Campaign Unveiled

The Thumbs Up Campaign launches nationwide today, aiming to boost public morale and foster community spirit. Organisers expect participation from over 10,000 individuals across 50 cities.
Campaign founder Sarah Johnson revealed the initiative’s core message: “A simple thumbs up can make a significant difference in someone’s day.” Johnson announced the campaign’s launch during a press conference held yesterday in London.
Participants are encouraged to share their thumbs-up moments on social media using the hashtag #ThumbsUpUK. The campaign’s official website provides resources and ideas for spreading positivity.
Local community leaders will kickstart the campaign in their respective areas. Each city will host a central event, with volunteers distributing thumbs-up badges and stickers.
The campaign has already garnered support from several high-profile figures. Actor Tom Hiddleston endorsed the initiative, stating, “It’s a wonderful way to connect with others and brighten their day.”
Organisers emphasize the campaign’s inclusivity, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to join. “Everyone has the power to make a difference,” said Johnson, urging widespread participation.
The Thumbs Up Campaign will run for four weeks, concluding on 30 November. Johnson expressed hope that the initiative will inspire lasting positive change in communities across the UK.
Background: The Origins of the Thumbs Up Campaign

The Thumbs Up Campaign launches nationwide today, building on a history of grassroots activism. The campaign traces its origins to a small community initiative in 2018, aiming to promote positivity and mental health awareness.
Local charity Mind Your Mind spearheaded the initial effort, encouraging people to give a thumbs up as a sign of support. The simple gesture quickly gained traction, with participants sharing their actions on social media using the hashtag #ThumbsUp.
By the end of 2018, the campaign had spread to neighbouring towns, with over 10,000 reported instances of the thumbs up gesture. Mind Your Mind’s founder, Sarah Johnson, noted the campaign’s growth at the time, stating, “The response has been overwhelmingly positive.”
In 2019, the campaign caught the attention of national mental health organisations, which began advocating for its expansion. The Samaritans and Mental Health UK joined forces with Mind Your Mind, providing resources and funding to support the campaign’s growth.
The Thumbs Up Campaign’s national launch follows a successful pilot phase in 2020, which saw participation from over 100,000 individuals. Today’s launch marks a significant milestone in the campaign’s journey from a local initiative to a nationwide movement.
What the Thumbs Up Campaign Aims to Achieve

The Thumbs Up Campaign, launching nationwide today, aims to promote positivity and mental well-being across communities. Organisers hope to reach at least 1 million participants through social media and local events.
The campaign encourages people to give a thumbs up to strangers, friends, and family to spread kindness and improve moods. Studies show that small acts of kindness can significantly boost mental health.
“Our goal is to create a wave of positivity that ripples through every corner of the country,” said campaign spokesperson Sarah Johnson. The initiative builds on similar successful campaigns in other nations.
Participants are urged to share their thumbs up moments on social media with the hashtag #ThumbsUpUK. Organisers anticipate high engagement, with over 50,000 posts expected in the first week alone.
Local community centres and schools are partnering with the campaign to host thumbs up events. These gatherings aim to foster connections and support mental health awareness.
The campaign also seeks to reduce stigma around mental health issues by promoting open conversations. Mental health charities endorse the initiative for its potential to make a tangible difference.
Thumbs Up UK has secured backing from major brands and influencers, amplifying its reach. Celebrities and public figures will share their support through various platforms.
Organisers emphasise the simplicity and universality of the thumbs up gesture. It transcends language barriers, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of background.
The campaign runs for four weeks, culminating in a national Thumbs Up Day on 30th April. Events and activities will take place across the country to mark the occasion.
Early supporters have already reported feeling more connected and positive after participating. The campaign hopes to inspire long-term changes in community behaviour and attitudes.
The Thumbs Up Campaign officially kicks off today, aiming to raise awareness about mental health across the nation. With high-profile ambassadors lending their support, the initiative seeks to encourage open conversations and reduce stigma. The campaign’s website offers resources and a helpline for those in need. Organisers hope to see widespread participation, with social media playing a crucial role in spreading the message. The campaign’s success could pave the way for similar initiatives in the future, fostering a more supportive society.












