THIS year hasn’t been plain-sailing - the world remains a volatile and unpredictable place, marked by crisis after crisis and conflict continues to rage in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, plunging us into uncharted territory.
Meanwhile, at home the path forward has not been without obstacles. However, unlike in previous years, I believe there are reasons for optimism.
Slowly but surely, we are finding our way through the darkness, and there is a growing sense that we can begin to turn things around. This progress, however, depends on one critical factor: people stepping forward to make a contribution and to serve.
Service is one of the most compassionate and selfless acts any of us can undertake. As a local MP, across Barnsley I see countless examples of service in action. Whether it’s the dedication of staff in Barnsley Hospital, the commitment of teachers in our schools, or the tireless efforts of volunteers at charities, the acts of kindness and devotion by folk each and every day should inspire us.
In my role as Security Minister at the Home Office, I’ve been privileged to witness this spirit of service on a national scale too. Working alongside the extraordinary men and women in our security and law enforcement agencies, I’ve seen first-hand their dedication to keeping our communities safe.
Their example also reminds me that, day in and day out, people are doing their part to make a difference. It’s this shared commitment to helping others that unites us as a nation.
Of course, there will always be nay-sayers. Those who jeer from the sidelines, quick to criticise but slow to act. My message to them, and to all of us, is simple: block out the noise and keep going. Progress requires hard graft and resilience, and while the road ahead will undoubtedly be tough, it’s through compassion, selflessness, and service that we will prevail.
As we prepare to welcome 2025, I’m confident that if we continue to come together as a community, we can overcome whatever challenges are ahead.
So, let’s all resolve to help one another, lift each other up, and serve wherever we can. By doing so, we can ensure that the year ahead is one of progress, unity, and hope.
Whatever you’re doing and wherever you are, I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful and prosperous 2025.
