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Through his holiday address, Keir Starmer has urged the nation to extend a hand to friends or family who are having a difficult time this Christmas.

“Some truly special people will be going to work,” he stated. “Many volunteers will be out there as well. Offering sustenance. Assisting those experiencing hardship or solitude.”

The leader, who experienced a personal loss last December, proposed that people should channel the ethos of these public servants by making a commitment to get back in touch with people for whom this time of year especially challenging.

“Across the country, we should give thanks to you at this time. But beyond that, we should all play our part as well,” he continued. “I know many across Britain are grappling with the cost of living. Helping with that is what I am committed to.”

Reaching Out During the Holidays

He went on to say, “However, during this season, which celebrates love and abundance, struggle or sadness can feel even more acute. So pay a visit to a neighbour. Get in touch with a friend or a relative who you have been out of touch with. Reach out. It can make a huge difference.”

Other Political Leaders Share Their Messages

As part of her Christmas message, Kemi Badenoch reflected she would be focusing on motherhood and her three children over the Christmas period.

“A great benefit of being a mother is observing their journey, and it passes in the blink of an eye,” she said. “This festive season, I’m looking forward to lots of meaningful moments with them … They love presents and Father Christmas, but I explain to them that Christmas is also about the nativity.”

The Lib Dem chief shared his thoughts in front of the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, calling it a token of gratitude and alliance from the people of Oslo.

“I have to admit – on the surface it does seem quite modest. But it’s also one I hold dear,” he stated, highlighting its origins as a present from Norway in gratitude for support during the second world war.

Messages of Hope and Unity

Zack Polanski, who spent time meeting asylum seekers in France in the run-up to Christmas, used his message to challenge the hostile rhetoric towards migrants.

“It is hard to accept we’re the country who are often depicted as,” he said. “I don’t believe that we’re cruel and heartless. And I am convinced that if people saw the situations I've encountered lately, they would offer support.”

Separately, it was reported that the monarch will give his Christmas Day message from the historic London abbey. The message will explore the idea of journey and is scheduled to be broadcast on television and radio at 3pm on Christmas Day.