More live-in carers working this Christmas as loneliness reaches record levels

This year, around 171,000 care workers are expected to be on duty on Christmas Day — an increase of 5,000 compared with 2024. The rise reflects not only growing demand for live-in care, but also the continued dedication of those willing to give up their own celebrations to support others.

By 2026, the number of people spending Christmas entirely alone is projected to reach 8.4 million, up from 7.5 million in 2024. Most of those affected are older adults, particularly women living alone in rural or suburban areas. However, increasing numbers of younger adults in cities are also facing Christmas in isolation.

Across the UK, the pattern varies by region. In Scotland, between 450,000 and 500,000 people are expected to spend the day alone, most of them older adults living in cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh. In South East England, around 200,000 to 250,000 individuals — many widowed or living without close family — will do the same. Wales faces similar challenges, with up to 150,000 people expected to spend the day alone, often in isolated rural communities. The North West, including Manchester and Liverpool, is home to some of the country’s highest rates of single-person households, with both younger adults and those over 65 particularly affected. London has one of the largest totals, with between 350,000 and 400,000 people expected to spend Christmas alone, a figure driven by the city’s high proportion of single professionals living independently. Across the rest of England, including the Midlands, North East and South West, a further 500,000 to 600,000 people are likely to experience Christmas in solitude.

For many of these individuals, a live-in carer may be the only person they see on Christmas Day. Their presence is often far more than practical — it can mean warmth, conversation and a sense of belonging at a time when loneliness feels most acute.

Noble Live-In Care, part of City & County Healthcare Group (CCH) — the UK’s largest provider of community-based care — is highlighting the growing number of live-in carers working over the festive period. “We want to shine a light on the unseen heroes,” said a spokesperson. “The ones bringing warmth, conversation and comfort when it matters most.”

Kirsty Prendiville Lawes, Operations Manager at Noble Live-In Care, praised the commitment of staff who give up their own family time to care for others. “The dedication of our live-in carers, who choose to be away from their own families to care for others during the Christmas period, is truly commendable,” she said. “Their commitment ensures that some of the most vulnerable individuals in our society receive the care and companionship they deserve. As we look towards 2026, we anticipate a continued increase in demand for live-in care services, highlighting the vital role our carers play in enhancing the quality of life for those in need.”

As the UK’s population continues to age, and as more people live alone, live-in care is becoming not just a profession but a lifeline. For thousands of people this Christmas, the kindness and presence of a carer will make all the difference — transforming what could have been a day of silence into one of connection and care.