Deciding what to buy your loved ones for Christmas can be a tricky task. Sometimes it feels like they have everything! So for a personal present that means something and makes a difference to the world, why not consider a charity gift, adoption or membership?

Got an animal lover in the family? You could adopt an animal for them. Simply pick their favourite animal and set up the adoption quickly and easily online. How about an endangered snow leopard, penguin or polar bear? Or maybe a guide dog puppy who will provide much needed support and companionship to a blind person? 

Whichever animal you choose, the person receiving your gift will get lots of great information and updates about their favourite animal. WWF's Animal adoptions often come with a gorgeous cuddly toy too – perfect for Christmas!

Child sponsorship is another great gift idea – especially around Christmas time when many of us would like to give something back. World Vision’s child sponsorship scheme provides healthcare, nutrition and education to some of the poorest children in the world. Sponsor a child on behalf of a friend or family member and they’ll even be able to write letters, send cards and find out how their sponsored child is getting on. 

Looking for something a little bit different? Check out Christian Aid’s Present Aid shop and Save the Children’s Wishlist for a huge selection of unusual gifts that will make a big difference to some of the poorest people in the world. From goats to bicycles, farming tools to healthy baby hampers, these sort of gifts will make a lasting improvement to people’s lives. And with so many options, you can pick something really personal that your friend or family member will love. 

For the nature and wildlife enthusiasts in your life, the RSPB shop and the Eden Project shop offer a fantastic selection of gifts for the home and garden, as well as toys and games for the kids. Best of all, the profits go towards protecting our precious wildlife and conserving important natural habitats.

Got a friend who’s more into history and heritage? National Trust gifts include a huge selection of bags, prints, books, food, clothes, homeware and more. And it’s not just about the beautiful items on offer – buying from the National Trust supports their work to conserve and protect historic places and green spaces.  

For a lasting Christmas gift you could even buy a membership to your friend or family member’s favourite organisation. Whether it’s the joining the National Trust, RSPB membership, WWF, English Heritage or Royal Horticultural Society, membership offers loads of fantastic benefits such as discounted entry, free parking and magazines throughout the year. And that’s all while supporting the essential work of the organisation. 

For even more ideas visit the charity gifts page and you’ll soon find the perfect present for everyone on your Christmas list.