No matter where anyone turns for advice during lockdown, one constant is to keep in regular contact with those closest to you, even if it’s not possible to meet in person. Whether there’s an upcoming special occasion or you just want to say a special “hello”, all while observing social distancing, we’ve brought together five of the best lockdown gift ideas – and neither of you will need to leave the house to enjoy them.

The Flower Power Bouquet from I Think That You Are Magic

It’s important to support local during trying times such as these, and just as essential to ensure that the charities relied upon by thousands of people emerge in a position to continue their fantastic work. With the Flower Power Bouquet by I Think That You Are Magic, you can do both.

The London-based company delivers across the city, with days, times and flower selections that vary depending on the specific area. £30 is excellent value for what you receive in this bouquet and £10 from each purchase goes straight to vulnerable charities, including the likes of Shelter, the Trussell Trust and the NHS.

Even if you’re not in London, I Think That You Are Magic isn’t the only small business with such initiatives. Beautiful bouquets are a timeless classic, and just what many people need to brighten up their day. Search online and shop local, safe in the knowledge that it’s hard to go wrong with flowers, even amid a pandemic.

A Subscription to Books That Matter

The pandemic has led to some people having more time on their hands than they have in many years, while others are busier than ever before. In both cases, many have turned to reading to fill the time, learn something new or improve at what’s keeping them active.

Reading is an excellent alternative to staring at a screen for hours. The peace and solitude can be great for mental health, especially during trying times. A Books that Matter subscription supplies a book by a female author each month, along with three or more gifts by creative women from across the UK. At £17 per month, it represents a high-quality, thoughtful gift that saves the stress of choosing what to read next.

Bad Brownie Boxes

Comfort food doesn’t come any more definitive than brownies, and Bad Brownie boasts a vast selection to suit any special someone. Boxes start at £14.50 and feature a selection of bestsellers, family favourites for traditional brownie lovers and unique choices for vegans and anyone seeking to avoid gluten in their diet.

There are even special gift boxes, combining brownies with specially selected Honduran coffee – the perfect combination for anyone that wishes to sit back and destress for a while.

A Calm Subscription

There are plenty of apps and subscriptions out there that claim to change lives, but Calm is one that is easy to believe in. Already popular before lockdown, it comes into its own when a boost to mental health is particularly welcome.

The guided meditation sessions will directly tackle anxiety, stress and many other potentially unfamiliar feelings. It can even help with sleep and could be just what a special someone needs, even if they don’t know it yet. Subscriptions start from £28.99 each month, and gift cards for up to a year can be purchased from the Calm website.

Patch Plants

Flowers are great, especially Flower Power Bouquets, but they don’t last forever, and some people simply prefer plants. With garden centres often among the first to close during lockdowns and alternatives relatively sparse compared to florists, it could be Patch to the rescue.

Their potted plants start from just £6, and there’s more than just a plant for your money. Their innovative technology will help you decide on the perfect plant based on where it will be and how much attention it requires, and the lucky recipient will also receive a guide to care for their plant.

Customers can even choose a proper pot for each plant, so there are no worries over where to place it and what to put it in when it arrives.