The festive season is a time for celebration and reflection but whilst it brings joy to many, it can also be a period of stress and hardship.
The army of volunteers who organise our fantastic community events and the shop workers who serve us during the very busy Christmas period deserve our gratitude for their efforts.
More recently many festive events were cancelled whilst our communities in Ogmore and across Wales and the UK faced significant challenges due to severe weather. Emergency workers and first responders have gone above and beyond working day and night in extreme storm weather to repair damage to homes and infrastructure and to restore essential services.
We have seen great examples of communities coming together and our local authorities have been active in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable residents. Energy and utility companies have worked closely with Welsh Government to get power, and water supplies back up and running as quickly as possible.
So, whilst we enjoy ‘down time’ with our families and friends during this time of year, we recognise the hard work that goes on behind the scenes on our behalf to enable us to have a ‘Merry Christmas.’ We think of the front-line health, hospital, emergency workers, and the many public service workers across all sectors for whom it is business as usual, working right through the festive holidays, keeping us and our loved ones safe.
Particularly the emergency service staff who continue to man telephone lines 24 hours a day, seven days a week – working at the sharp end to provide a lifeline to many people in distress at this time of year. Sadly, mental health issues can be heightened during the festive period.
But we too can play our part, and ‘give something back’ by considering the lonely and the vulnerable and looking out for those who are alone. Maybe an elderly neighbour is missing loved ones or feeling worse during this time of year.
Whilst we continue to enjoy the festivities, we can be alert to signs that someone may be struggling and reach out with details of the many excellent support services who are on hand to chat, support or just listen to help people through. These little things matter a lot to someone living alone.
Let’s look out for each other this holiday season. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to Samaritans Cymru (116 123) or the NHS mental health service (111, option 2).
Nadolig Llawen pawb a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.
