Prime Minister Keir Starmer has used his first Downing Street Christmas message to pay tribute to the 1.2 million people working on Christmas Day, while acknowledging the ongoing financial pressures facing households.
A Nation's Thanks to Festive Workers
In the broadcast from Number 10, aired on 24th December 2025, the Prime Minister specifically thanked NHS staff, emergency service personnel, and members of the armed forces who will be on duty. He also highlighted the vital role of volunteers who will be serving food and supporting the lonely.
"Just as so many put their feet up, some truly special people will be pulling on their uniforms and heading out to work," Mr Starmer said. He urged the nation to "raise a glass" to those keeping the country safe and cared for during the festive break.
Addressing Hardship and New Worker Protections
The Labour leader directly addressed the strain of the cost of living, promising that tackling it remains his government's "priority." He encouraged people to check in on neighbours and relatives for whom the season might amplify feelings of loss or hardship.
This message follows a recent event where the Prime Minister and his wife, Victoria, hosted 93 public sector workers for an early Christmas dinner at Downing Street. Guests included Zoe Lucas, a neurosurgery ward nurse from Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, and Detective Sergeant Stacey Bailey, nominated for a British Association for Women in Policing Leadership Award.
New Employment Rights a "Perfect Christmas Present"
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) released research on the same day, confirming the scale of festive working. TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak echoed the Prime Minister's sentiments, calling for thanks to those in care, nursing, and retail.
Mr Nowak also hailed the government's recently passed Employment Rights Bill as the "perfect Christmas present" for workers. The legislation, which will come into force in April 2026, includes key measures such as:
- Day one rights to sick pay.
- A ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts.
"When the Employment Rights Act comes into force, exploitative zero-hours contracts should be consigned to history," Mr Nowak stated, adding it would bring more security and dignity to millions.
Mr Starmer concluded his message by emphasising the core spirit of the season: reaching out and making a difference to others in the community.
