Blog
Help Keep The Tradition of Christmas Cards Alive
The rising cost of postage has led to a significant decline in the number of Christmas cards being sent in the UK. For many families, particularly during an already expensive time of year, the cost of posting dozens of cards has become increasingly difficult to justify. As a result, fewer cards are being sent, and an important part of our Christmas heritage risks being lost.
That’s why we are proud to support a petition launched by four great-great-great-granddaughters of Sir Henry Cole – the visionary who created the world’s first commercial Christmas card and helped transform Britain’s postal system.
A Legacy Worth Protecting
Sir Henry Cole is perhaps best known as the founder and first Director of the V&A Museum, but his influence extends far beyond the museum world.
During the 1840s, he played a key role in reforming the British postal system, helping to establish the Uniform Penny Post and introduce the Penny Black stamp. By making postage affordable, he enabled families across the country to stay connected and helped make written communication accessible to everyone.
He also recognised the power of sending festive greetings, commissioning the first commercial Christmas card in 1843. More than 180 years later, that tradition continues to bring joy to millions.
A Simple Idea That Could Make a Big Difference
The petition calls on Royal Mail to introduce a special 50p stamp for personal Christmas and seasonal greeting cards. The stamp would be valid for one month, from November to December, making it more affordable for people to send festive greetings during the Christmas season.
It’s a simple proposal with far-reaching benefits.
For older people, those living alone, or families separated by distance, receiving a handwritten Christmas card can be a highlight of the festive period. Unlike a digital message that disappears with the next notification, a card remains on display throughout Christmas, serving as a daily reminder that someone is thinking of you.
Why This Matters
We see first-hand the difference Christmas card sales make to the charities we work with. For many, Christmas cards are much more than a festive tradition. They provide valuable unrestricted income that helps fund essential services, support vulnerable people and continue vital charitable work throughout the year.
When fewer Christmas cards are sent, it isn’t just a long-standing tradition that’s affected. The charities that rely on seasonal card sales also feel the impact.
Making Christmas postage more affordable has the potential to encourage more people to send cards again, helping to reconnect loved ones while also increasing support for the many charities that benefit from Christmas card sales. It’s a simple idea that could create a positive ripple effect – for individuals, communities and the charitable sector alike.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
The proposal for a seasonal Christmas stamp reflects the very principles that Sir Henry Cole championed over 180 years ago: making communication affordable, accessible and inclusive.
It’s a small change that could have a meaningful impact. It could help families and friends stay connected, encourage more people to revive the tradition of sending Christmas cards and provide a welcome boost to the charities that depend on seasonal card sales.
At a time when so much of our communication is digital and fleeting, a handwritten Christmas card still has the power to make someone feel remembered, appreciated and connected
We’re proud to support this petition and hope you’ll join us. By signing and sharing the campaign, you can help encourage Royal Mail to make festive postage more affordable and ensure that the simple joy of sending and receiving Christmas cards continues for generations to come.
A quick note about signing the petition
Signing the petition is completely free. After you’ve added your details, Change.org may invite you to make a donation to support its platform, but this is entirely optional. If you don’t wish to donate, simply scroll to the bottom and choose “Sorry, I can’t do anything right now” to complete the process.
Don’t forget to check your inbox afterwards and click the confirmation link in the email from Change.org to ensure your signature is counted.