As we draw to the close of a very disturbing year in terms of global history, I would like to wish you a peaceful Christmas and all the best for 2017.

I am personally looking forward to having time off work and being able to spend more time with my children. This year, I have also decided to make a real effort to be more aware of those for whom Christmas is a challenging time of year. For those who have been affected by so-called natural disasters or acts of war or violence. For those going through separation, loneliness or bereavement. For those living on the street and those who have to work hard over the Christmas period.

My work colleagues and I have just come up with the following suggestions, most of which require no money:

• just smile and share a short encouragement with the elderly lady you see at the bus stop or the stressed out cashier in the supermarket
• call in on a neighbour who lives alone
• send an e-mail to a long-lost friend, former school teacher or colleague
• help out in a soup kitchen or offer to help refugees.
• take a small gift of chocolates or flowers to show your appreciation either to a stranger or person living alone or going through a hard time.

Take care and I’ll write again after Christmas. It’s also my birthday on New Year’s Eve. I’m looking to that, I think …