Over 4,000 people, and partners in 60 countries have pledged support for a new charity being launched in a bid to create a happier world.

Action for Happiness aims to invoke a mass movement of people taking positive action to encourage happiness, in whatever way they can, at home, work or in the community.

The action is founded by three influential thinkers: political commentator and historian Anthony Seldon; economist Lord Richard Layard; and Young Foundation chief executive Geoff Mulgan who was director of policy under Tony Blair's government.

The charity aims to “put happiness at the heart of public debate” in society.

Action for Happiness director Mark Williamson says: “Many of us are feeling that our society has got its priorities all wrong. We live in an increasingly competitive, self-obsessed culture which encourages us to pursue wealth, appearance, status and possessions as a route to success.

“This is supported by our political and economic systems that are focused on maximising economic growth above all else. Yet, despite getting much richer as a society, we're not actually getting any happier.

“Fortunately it doesn't have to be like this.  By focusing our time and energy instead on things that have been shown to consistently bring happiness we can live rich, rewarding lives.”
 
The launch on Tuesday 12 April will be hosted by BBC Breakfast presented Sian Williams and will showcase projects making a difference to people's happiness. A 'Happiness Pack' is available from the charity's website, actionforhappiness.org, listing ten key ways to live happier and as many as 50 actions to take towards happiness.