This Christmas, I want to take a moment to reflect on what makes West Cumbria such a special place to live. This time of year encourages us to slow down, look around, and recognise the strength we draw from each other – something the people of our area understand better than most.
West Cumbria has never been defined by easy times. Our history is one of hard work, industrial pride and communities that pull together when challenges arise. Whether it’s economic uncertainty, pressures on public services, or the rising cost of living, people here have faced difficulties with quiet determination and a strong sense of fairness. That resilience is not something you can legislate for – it comes from shared values, neighbourliness, and a deep-rooted belief that no one should face hardship alone.
At Christmas especially, those values shine through. Across our towns and villages, people are looking out for one another – checking in on elderly neighbours, volunteering their time, donating what they can, and making sure that kindness reaches those who need it most. It’s this everyday compassion that sustains our communities, often unnoticed but always invaluable.
I’ve been privileged this Christmas to meet just a few of those people. Rev. Sharon Murphy at St. Mary’s Church in Westfield, who has turned her church into a hub for the community. Eric Gillespie from Cleator Moor, whose door is open to anyone who needs it for food and a hot cuppa. Jules Huck who runs Hearts of Gold West Cumbria, collecting donations to make sure struggling local families have presents to open on Christmas Day. And the volunteers from Salterbeck Tenants & Residents Association and Workington Derwent Rotary Club who run the Food Pantry at the Oval Centre. These and many more show the heart of West Cumbria.
As we celebrate the festive season, we should also be honest about the challenges ahead. Too many families are feeling the strain, and too many people are worried about what the new year might bring. But if there’s one thing West Cumbria has shown time and again, it’s that we face the future strongest when we do so together. By listening to one another, supporting local businesses, and investing in our communities, we can build the confidence and security people deserve.
Christmas is a time for gratitude – for the NHS staff working through the holidays, for emergency services keeping us safe, for carers, volunteers, and all those whose work doesn’t stop just because the calendar says so. It’s also a time to appreciate the simple things: family, friendship, and the comfort of knowing you belong to a community that cares.
I hope this Christmas brings moments of warmth and rest for you and your loved ones. Thank you for everything you do, not just at this time of year, but all year round, to make West Cumbria the resilient, compassionate place it is. I wish you a peaceful Christmas and a hopeful New Year.
Josh MacAlister MP 