Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis has announced a career break for the rest of 2024 as he signed off from social media with a ‘difficult’ message.
The founder of the money saving website took to X to send a Christmas message to his millions of followers in which he told them that he’s stepping away for a period of time for a festive career break set to last until at least the beginning of the New Year.
Martin told his 3.1M followers: “I’m signing off social media and work for the festive break now. I would like to wish all who celebrate a joyous, peaceful, and warm-hearted Christmas and a very happy New Year. Thank you all for your continued support.”
He added: “I’ll see you back in 2025 fit and raring to go, and hopefully I’ll save you some money next year too.”
But Martin had a message for those who might not be having a great Christmas, too, adding: “For those who find this time of year difficult, or grief filled or lonely, may your passage through it be easy with more smiles than you’re expecting.”
For those alone or struggling at Christmas, there are numbers you can call which are open 24/7, 365 days a year including on Christmas Day:
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Age UK (England) 0800 678 1602. ageuk.org.uk.
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Age Cymru (Wales) 0300 303 44 98
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Beat. 0808 801 0677 (England)
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Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) 0800 58 58 58
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Combat Stress. 0800 1381 619
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The Compassionate Friends. 0345 123 2304.
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Cruse Bereavement Support. 0808 808 1677.
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Samaritans: 116 123.
The Samaritans says: “No matter how or if you celebrate, it is normal that this time of year can affect your mental health. You may be feeling like you aren’t enjoying the things you usually do this time of year. You may be worried about friends and family or other things happening in the world. You are not alone. There are all sorts of reasons you might find this time of year difficult and that’s OK.
“At Samaritans, we’re committed to helping you, however we can. If you don’t feel like there’s anyone you can talk to, our volunteers are here for you. Call free, day or night, on 116 123 or email [email protected].”