Scottish party leaders share Christmas messages honouring workers and volunteers

“And I want to send a special message of thanks and appreciation for all of those across our emergency services and armed forces who will work throughout the festive period to keep us safe,” he added.

The MSP continued: “This Christmas, try to take time to relax, to enjoy time with family and friends and to remember the laughter and joy that helps us all get through the dark winter months.

“So from my family to yours and from all of us in the Scottish Labour family, we hope you have a peaceful and joyful Christmas.”

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Meanwhile, Scottish Green co-convenor Lorna Slater urged Scots to extend their hope and solidarity “beyond our borders.”

She said: “The festive period can be a time of celebration and cheer, but for many it can be difficult. It is a natural time to think about our cherished memories and about those who we miss the most.

“For a lot of people today will be a day of work. Whether it is the doctors, nurses and care workers in our hospitals or the firefighters and police officers prepared to respond to a crisis, every one of these workers should be in our thoughts and given our gratitude.”

Ms Slater also paid tribute to the thousands of people volunteering during Christmas Day at shelters for the homeless, who are “doing all that they can to spread some relief and make life that bit brighter for others.”

She added: “The last few years have underlined just how connected and entwined our lives are and how much we depend on one another. It is even more important that we look after ourselves and support each other at this time of year.

“This is meant to be a season of peace, which is needed more than ever.

“Our thoughts, our hopes and our solidarity must extend beyond our borders and to people around the world, not just today but every day.”

In his message, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said there were now “500 sleeps” until the 2026 Holyrood election.

“That’s when we have the chance to get the change Scotland really needs: a change of government,” he argued.

The MSP added: “To all those who will be working today, whether that is in our hospitals, care homes, homeless services and more, I want you to know that my party appreciates everything you do, and we will work tirelessly to support you in the year ahead.”

In his message, published on Christmas Eve, First Minister John Swinney said the festive period was “always a good time to appreciate those who mean the most to us.”

He added: “For me, that is my family. It has been an unexpectedly busy year for all of us, and I cannot thank my family enough for the support they have given to me.

“At the top of our list will be taking time to enjoy the countryside near our home – the Perthshire countryside – places such as Loch Faskally, which are very special to me.”

He added: “The utmost priority of my Government is eradicating child poverty here in Scotland, and Children First provides support to Scotland’s children and their families.

“Because, while Christmas is a wonderful, festive time of the year for many, it can also be a difficult or hectic time for others.”

My Christmas message with thanks and love to people in Scotland. https://t.co/8yyjMqRQQz

— John Swinney (@JohnSwinney) December 24, 2024

Meanwhile, Russell Findlay gave his first festive message as Scottish Conservative leader.

He said it was an “honour” and a “privilege” to work in public service, and promised to stand up for the rights of Scots.

He said: “Public service is not just a duty, it’s a privilege, too. I will never take for granted the opportunity to represent you and stand up for your hopes, concerns and ambitions.

“At Christmas, we should all take a moment to thank those public servants who won’t get much of a holiday over the festive period, especially armed forces personnel and emergency service workers.

“We owe them a huge debt of gratitude for the sacrifices they make in doing their duty and keeping us safe.”