Why the festive season can feel harder than it looks
The festive season is often shown as a time of warmth, connection and celebration. But for many people, Christmas can bring emotional, social and practical challenges that make it far from easy.
For adults who rely on advocacy support or work alongside advocates, this time of year can highlight the importance of having someone to speak up for them — especially when regular services slow down or close.
What makes Christmas difficult for some people
- Changes in routine and reduced support: many local and national services, groups and community hubs close or reduce hours during the holidays. This can leave people without the structure or care they normally depend on.
- Heightened expectations: the pressure to have a “perfect Christmas” can create anxiety and a sense of failure for those who don’t have family, money or festive plans.
- Loneliness and isolation: being away from loved ones, experiencing loss or simply not connecting with the festive season can make people feel left out or forgotten.
- Financial stress: the cost of food, gifts and travel can cause real hardship, particularly for those on lower incomes or living with additional needs.
- Mental health triggers: shorter days, colder weather and social pressure can worsen conditions such as depression or anxiety.
- Feeling unseen: people who celebrate different holidays, live alone or need specialist support can feel excluded when everything focuses on Christmas.
How independent advocacy can help
Independent advocates play a vital role in helping people stay safe, supported and heard during this busy and sometimes overwhelming time.
Advocates can:
- Help people plan ahead for the festive period, identifying any gaps in support or service closures.
- Support individuals to express their wishes, such as how they want to celebrate (or not celebrate) Christmas.
- Connect clients to local and national organisations offering practical or emotional support.
- Follow up after the holidays to reflect on what worked and what could be improved for next year.
Find out more about how advocacy can help on our services page.
Useful organisations to turn to for support this Christmas
Below is a list of national and local services offering help, advice or simply someone to talk to over the Christmas period.
UK-wide support
OrganisationWho they support and what they offer:
Samaritans 24/7 confidential listening service for anyone in distress or experiencing suicidal thoughts. Call 116 123.samaritans.org
Mind Mental health advice and information, including tips for coping at Christmas.mind.org.uk
The Silver Line 24-hour helpline for older people who feel lonely or isolated.thesilverline.org.uk
Stand Alone Support for adults estranged from their families.standalone.org.uk
Crisis National charity providing shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness, including “Crisis at Christmas”.crisis.org.uk
Shout Free 24/7 text support for anyone struggling to cope. Text “SHOUT” to 85258.giveusashout.org
Papyrus Suicide prevention charity supporting young people under 35.papyrus-uk.org
Childline Free and confidential support for children and young people up to 19 years old.childline.org.uk
National Domestic Abuse Helpline Free and confidential support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Call 0808 2000 247.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.
Herefordshire support
OrganisationWho they support and what they offerWebsite / contactCrossroads Together HerefordshireSupports unpaid carers of all ages with practical help and advice.carers.orgHerefordshire Voluntary Organisations Support Service (HVOSS)Connects people to volunteering and community activities.hvoss.org.ukTalk Community HerefordshireOffers local directories and information about community groups, warm spaces and wellbeing hubs.talkcommunity.co.ukHerefordshire MindLocal mental health charity providing wellbeing groups, crisis support and advice.herefordshire-mind.org.uk
Hertfordshire support
OrganisationWho they support and what they offerWebsite / contactHertfordshire Mind NetworkMental health services across the county, including wellbeing centres and community groups.hertsmindnetwork.orgMind in Mid HertsLocal branch offering counselling, workshops and peer support for ages 16+.mindinmidherts.org.ukHertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT)24/7 mental health helpline and crisis support for all ages. Call 0800 6444 101.hpft.nhs.ukCarers in HertfordshireSupport and advice for unpaid carers across the county.carersinherts.org.uk
Practical ways to support someone this season
- Encourage people to plan early and know which services are open or closed.
- Remind them to take breaks and create quiet time away from social pressures.
- Help set realistic expectations – not every Christmas has to be perfect.
- Promote connection and community – even small gestures of kindness matter.
- Keep helpline numbers visible for anyone who might need them.
- Check in after Christmas to see how someone is feeling and if further support is needed.
How Uphold Advocacy can make a difference
Uphold Advocacy helps people understand their rights, have their say and make informed choices — especially during times when they might otherwise feel unheard.
By recognising that Christmas can be complex for many, our advocates ensure every person’s wishes and wellbeing remain at the heart of decision-making.
Learn more about what we do and how we can help on our About Us page or get in touch today.
