Nicola Sturgeon urges Scots to help others in Christmas message to the nation

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Nicola Sturgeon has urged Scots to consider how they can help others as the cost of living crisis has made "a very hard winter for many".The First Minister used her annual Christmas message to encourage members of the public to donate to charities or help out in their communities.And she paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces and emergency services who would continue working throughout the festive season.The SNP leader also recognised it would be a Christmas many families would particularly looking forward to after the impact of covid restrictions in 2020 and 2021.In her festive message, the First Minister said: "Especially after the past two Christmases, I know most of us will be really looking forward to this festive period."The chance to gather with family, friends and loved ones, really is something to cherish.

Of course, the cost of living crisis is making this a very hard winter for many."So this Christmas, it’s important for all of us to also think about how we can help others."Maybe donating to charity if we can, or helping out in our communities, or visiting a neighbour or friend who might be on their own and want some support or company."I know many will already be doing exactly that – showing compassion and companionship, and helping make the festive period that bit brighter for everyone, so thank you."I also want to thank all those for whom Christmas isn’t a holiday at all."The men and women serving in our armed services, those caring for us in the National Health Service, and looking after us in police and fire – indeed, all those working across our essential public and voluntary services."I am deeply grateful for all the work you do every year and throughout the year.