Starmer’s Easter message centres on hope, renewal and support for communities

Prime Minister Keir Starmer

(Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street)

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has used his 2026 Easter message to place hope, renewal and community support at the centre of his remarks, while acknowledging the anxiety being felt by many families amid conflict abroad and ongoing pressures at home.

In a message issued ahead of Easter, the Prime Minister described the Christian festival as “a celebration of hope, new life and renewal”, setting the tone for a statement that focused heavily on faith, resilience and the role churches continue to play in communities across the country.

Tribute to churches and Christian communities

The Prime Minister praised churches and Christian communities for the quiet work they carry out in neighbourhoods across the UK, describing their contribution as both tireless and deeply rooted in service.

He said:

“Across the country, churches and Christian communities quietly and tirelessly support families, children and neighbours - offering comfort, bringing people together, and standing alongside those who need it most.”

The message pointed to the role churches play in providing practical and emotional support, particularly for vulnerable families, children and those experiencing isolation.

He added that this “spirit of service” reflects both national renewal and the core Christian example of service and compassion.

Acknowledging pressures on families

A central theme of the message was the uncertainty facing many households.

The Prime Minister said Easter this year arrives during a period of “real anxiety for many people”, citing both international and domestic concerns.

He said:

“Conflicts abroad, pressures at home, and uncertainty about the future weigh heavily on families and households.”

The reference comes at a time when many families continue to face economic strain, wider global instability and concerns over what lies ahead.

Against that backdrop, the Prime Minister said faith can provide reassurance and stability.

He said:

“In moments like these, faith offers reassurance and grounding - a reminder that we are not alone, and that hope can still take root even in difficult soil.”

Churches’ role in tackling poverty and isolation

The statement also highlighted the longstanding presence of churches in local communities and their role in responding to hardship.

The Prime Minister said churches have, for generations, been embedded in neighbourhoods and have worked to tackle poverty, fear and isolation.

This formed a wider message around social cohesion and resilience, with the Government signalling continued engagement with faith organisations.

He said:

“For generations, churches have been rooted in their neighbourhoods, working to combat poverty, fear and isolation.”

Government partnership with faith groups

Alongside the Easter message, the Prime Minister set out the Government’s intention to continue working with churches and wider faith and belief groups.

He said this approach is part of efforts to strengthen local communities through initiatives including Pride in Place and Best Start Family Hubs.

These programmes were referenced as examples of how Government and faith-based organisations can work together to support communities and families.

The Prime Minister said:

“That is why we are keen to partner with churches, alongside other faith and belief groups, to strengthen and transform local communities through programmes such as Pride in Place and Best Start Family Hubs, among others.”

Closing Easter wishes

Bringing the message to a close, the Prime Minister thanked those who volunteer their time through churches and Christian charities.

He said the country is strongest when it chooses unity, compassion and service.

He added:

“Our country is at its best when we choose community over division, kindness over indifference, and service over self-interest.”

The message concluded with Easter wishes to Christians across the UK and around the world.

He said he wished them “a very happy Easter filled with peace, hope and the promise of new life.”

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At a glance

• Prime Minister Keir Starmer has issued his 2026 Easter message

• He said Easter is a celebration of “hope, new life and renewal”

• The message praises churches and Christian charities for supporting families and communities

• He acknowledged conflict abroad and pressures facing households at home

• The Government says it wants to work with faith groups through community programmes

• Christians across the UK and worldwide were wished a peaceful and hopeful Easter