24/12/2025
At this special time of year, I would like to speak directly to everyone who relies on care and support, as well as to the families who entrust us with their loved ones.
On Christmas Day, our care staff will be out across our communities, just as they are every other day of the year, ensuring that everyone who needs care receives their scheduled visits. No one will be forgotten. No one will be alone.
While many people are gathered around their own tables, our carers will be stepping away from their own families for a few hours to provide care, comfort and reassurance to others in their own homes. They will arrive with warm smiles, kind words and genuine compassion – bringing not just essential support, but human connection on a day when that matters most. I cannot express enough gratitude or pride for the dedication, professionalism and heart our teams show, especially at Christmas.
We know that this has been another challenging year for social care in Scotland. The pressures on staff, services and providers have been real, and at times overwhelming. Yet despite these difficulties, our workforce continues to show extraordinary resilience and commitment to the people we support. That is something worth celebrating.
As we look ahead, I hold real hope that 2026 will bring better times for social care – greater recognition, fairer funding and the respect that this vital work truly deserves. Until then, we remain steadfast in our promise to be there for those who depend on us.
From all of us, I wish you a peaceful Christmas filled with warmth, reassurance and care. And to our incredible staff: thank you for everything you do, today and always ❤️
