‘Together at Christmas’ Community Carol Services take place across the UK to celebrate the power of kindness and community spirit

As the festive season approaches, communities across the UK are uniting to share the spirit of Christmas with a series of special ‘Together at Christmas’ Community Carol Services, supported by The Royal Foundation.

Inspired by The Princess of Wales’ annual ‘Together at Christmas’ service at Westminster Abbey, thousands of people across the UK will gather at a series of 15 local carol services to celebrate the incredible contributions local individuals and organisations make in support of others.

The series of regional events will embrace the values of love, empathy, and community spirit, bringing people together from all walks of life, demonstrating the impact compassion and generosity can bring to communities. The carol services will take place in December, with the special series taking place from Truro to Aberdeen, and Omagh to Powys.

Each service will feature performances by local choirs and readings from community representatives, sharing stories of care and kindness in the face of adversity by those who have shown exceptional compassion throughout the year. Whether through volunteering, supporting local causes, or simply helping neighbours at a time of need, these carol services shine a light on the remarkable efforts of local heroes.

One of the first services, held in Rochester on Monday 2nd December, was inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and featured a reading by Ollie Dickens, a descendant of Dickens, who spent much of his childhood and later life in the county.

All of the Community Carol Services will bring communities together in beautiful and uplifting celebrations, reflecting on the importance of supporting one another. With over 5,500 attendees expected to participate overall, the events will highlight the power of kindness, with many sharing personal stories of how they have witnessed the impact of empathy in their own lives.

Speaking about the initiative, Amanda Berry, CEO of The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, commented: “We are thrilled to support these remarkable community carol services across the UK this year. These events embody the spirit of ‘Together at Christmas’ by bringing communities together and celebrating those whose actions reflect the true essence of the festive season. Their selflessness is an inspiration, and we are proud to honour them in this way.”

The Community Carol Services are supported by The Co-operative Group, who are providing hot and cold drinks as well as festive treats for participants, and Hobbycraft, which is gifting craft sets to all children attending the services, along with Christmas decorations.

The services are part of a national effort to honour those who have made a positive impact in their communities. The Princess of Wales’ fourth ‘Together at Christmas’ Carol Service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of empathy, shining a light on individuals who have shown love and kindness to others in their communities – whether on a personal level with friends and family, through their work or as they selflessly give up their time through volunteering.

The service will air as part of a special programme on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.