Action for Happiness is a movement of people committed to building a happier society. We want to see a fundamentally different way of life where people care less about what they can get for themselves and more about the happiness of others.
We are bringing together like-minded people from all walks of life, drawing on the latest scientific research and backed by leading experts from the fields of psychology, education, economics, social innovation and beyond.
Members of the movement make a simple pledge: to try to create more happiness in the world around them through the way they approach their lives. We provide practical ideas to enable people to take action in different areas of their lives - at home, at work or in the community. We hope many of our members will form local groups to take action together.
We have no religious, political or commercial affiliations and welcome people of all faiths (or none) and all parts of society. We were founded in 2010 by three influential figures who are passionate about creating a happier society: Richard Layard, Geoff Mulgan and Anthony Seldon.
What we believe: the core idea behind our movement
Introductory video about Action for Happiness
Our Director Mark Williamson shares his vision for a happier society
Lord Richard Layard gives his answers to the happiness sceptics
Supporting quotes from our partners
Our panel of expert advisors
Some of our early members
Our wonderful team
Action for Happiness is currently part of The Young Foundation, which is a Registered Charity (274345) and Company Limited by Guarantee (1319183) in England and Wales.
Our board
Lord Richard Layard:
Professor of Economics at LSE. Previously founder director of Centre for Economic Performance and head of Programme on Well-Being. Wrote highly influential book "Happiness: Lessons from a New Science" in 2005.
Geoff Mulgan:
Chief Executive of NESTA. He was previously CEO of the Young Foundation, director of Government's Strategy Unit, Head of Policy in Prime Minister's office and founder of think-tank Demos.
Dr Anthony Seldon:
Master of Wellington College, where he has introduced happiness/well-being classes into the school curriculum. Political historian and commentator; author and editor of over 25 books on contemporary history, politics and education.
Nic Marks:
Recognised expert in the field of well-being research. Founder the Centre for Well-being at the New Economics Foundation and has led the well-being programme since 2001.
Vanessa King:
Experienced advisor on leadership and organisation development and expert in positive psychology. Partner of Change Able and Director of The Change Space.
Dr Mark Williamson:
Joined as Director of Action for Happiness in September 2010. Experienced leader with wide range of expertise across both commercial and non-profit sectors.
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