Hands Up Foundation is now Action Syria

Action Syria Carols returns this December

Action Syria Carols is back, and this year it matters more than ever 

On Monday 1 December, join us for an unforgettable evening of music, reflection and solidarity at Action Syria Carols 2025, held at the magnificent St Bartholomew the Great, London’s oldest surviving church. 

This year marks a turning point. Following the fall of Assad’s regime last December, Syrian communities are rebuilding after years of conflict, displacement and crisis. 

Now in its 11th year, Action Syria Carols brings together voices from across the UK to stand with Syrian communities as they shape a brighter future.  

Proceeds from the service will support trusted Syrian-led organisations helping communities who are moving forward to have the education and medical care they need. 

Hope remains in Syria, even as hardship endures 

Syria has entered a new era — one filled with renewed hope, but still marked by deep challenges and fragility. 

Millions still live in poverty. Hospitals and schools lie in ruins, and more than two million children are out of education. Recent violence shows how fragile this moment is. 

As civil society continues to grow, access to medical care, education and emergency support remains vital. This special evening will help raise the funds to meet those needs and turn hope into stronger action. 

A night of music and meaning  

This year’s candlelit service will feature celebrated readers, UK and Syrian musicians, and choirs from St Barts and a local school.  

Enjoy heartwarming carols, moving performances, and a festive reception of Middle Eastern-inspired bowl food from KHAYO by Toum & Tahini, served alongside seasonal drinks. 

We are also delighted to welcome Iain Burnside, pianist, award-winning broadcaster and Action Syria Ambassador, as host for the evening. Iain says,  

“With the world in such turmoil it’s tempting to shrug our shoulders, throw up our hands and sit back. By contrast, Action Syria lives up to its name, never sitting back but stepping up at this crucial time to do the challenging, hands-on work needed to support Syrians whose situation would, in other times, be headline news. 

I’m proud to be an Ambassador and can’t wait for their festive Christmas carol concert, in one of London’s most historic churches. Where else can you sing your heart out, then eat delicious Syrian food? You can help us in a number of different ways. First and foremost: buy some tickets!” 

Early bird tickets will be available from early October. 

Every song sung, every candle lit and every ticket sold helps support the futures of Syrians. 

Join us to make a positive difference to Syrian communities.

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