READ TIME - 4 minute read

This weekend I found myself standing in the middle of the Rock Choir Christmas party… with 10,000 other “Rockies.” Yes — 15,000 and also Sam Ryder, Emilie Sande and Russell Watson.

A sea of sparkle, Santa hats, and the kind of joyful noise that only happens when thousands of people decide they’re absolutely going to sing their hearts out. And as I stood there, one thing stood out more than anything else:

Belonging.

There is something genuinely powerful about being surrounded by people who show up to be part of something bigger. Different ages, backgrounds, and stories — none of it matters. What matters is the feeling of being welcomed, included, connected.

And at this time of year, that sense of belonging becomes more important than ever.

🎄 The Season of “Are you okay?”

Christmas looks joyful on the outside — lights, music, everything sparkling — but it can also be one of the most emotionally challenging times of the year.

Here are some UK stats that might surprise you:

• Over 40% of people feel increased stress at Christmas

• Around 1 in 4 experience anxiety or depression over the festive period

• 77% say they feel lonely or isolated even when surrounded by others

• 84% report their mental health gets worse in December

• 3 in 10 say their mental health “nosedives” at this time of year

It’s a reminder that behind the celebrations, a lot of people are holding things together.

So as leaders, colleagues, and humans, here are a few ways we can help:

🟢 Check in on people, not performance
A simple “How are you, really?” can be exactly what someone needs.

🟢 Notice changes in behaviour
Quietness, irritability, or withdrawal can be signs someone’s struggling.

🟢 Normalise conversations about mental health
The more we talk, the easier it becomes for others to open up.

🟢 Give people grace
December is a lot — emotionally, financially, mentally.

🟢 Create moments of belonging
Not everyone has them elsewhere.

Even small gestures can make a huge difference.

📍 Useful Links You Can Share With Your Team

These are all national support organisations:

Mind – Christmas & Mental Health
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/christmas-and-mental-health/

Mental Health UK – Christmas & Your Mental Health
https://mentalhealth-uk.org/christmas-and-your-mental-health/

NHS Every Mind Matters – Loneliness
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/lifes-challenges/loneliness/

Feel free to copy/paste these into any internal emails or team messages.

💚 A quick note about Mental Health Champions…

If you do have Mental Health Champions — or want them — our Black Friday offer is still running until Friday.

It’s the most accessible way we’ve ever offered:
✨ Monthly training
✨ Practical tools
✨ Conversation scripts
✨ Signposting
✨ A supportive community
✨ Guidance for new or experienced Champions

A really lovely way to strengthen your wellbeing approach ahead of 2026.

Simply hit reply if you would like more details.

Have a wonderful week,
Emma x

P.S. We have support documents in the Wellbeing area of the Hub for Christmas, including posters you can print and place in the workplace with offers of support. Why not try the HR Hub free for a month here.

Events to Join in the coming weeks

🎥 Free Webinar- Managing Sickness Absence - — understanding the real costs, reducing absenteeism, and preparing for the 2026 changes.

🎥 Free Webinar- Managing Conflict - — coming in the next few weeks, the next in our series of free webinars. Click on the title to join the waiting list.

🎥 LinkedIn Live on Sexual Harassment Legislation and How to Be Complaint - Click on re-watch it.

🌟 Our Referral Program!

Do you know someone who would benefit from reading this weekly newsletter? Once a quarter we do a prize draw with all those who have referred this newsletter in with the chance of winning a £250 voucher! The more referrals you make, the higher your chances of winning – let’s spread the word and help even more people navigate HR with confidence. 💌🎁