EastEnders’ Jean Slater suffers in silence later this month, as she continues to shut herself away from the outside world. But when Kat and Alfie Moon eventually uncover the extent of her misery, will Jean accept the support she needs?

Struggling with all the upheaval in the Slater family, Jean isolates herself from her nearest and dearest.

However, her decision to hide away only serves to make things worse for those around her, as Lily tries desperately to keep things ticking over as usual at home. Later, Kat and Alfie call at No.31 – but what do they find?

“Kat and Alfie are stunned by the state of the place,” says our Albert Square insider. “They turn up at the Slater house after a conversation with Lily that raises their suspicions about how things are going over there.

“And thank goodness that they do, as their timely visit triggers Lily to open up about just how badly her nan is coping. Being forced to step up isn’t new for Lily, but regardless, it’s not fair on her. The young girl might be wise, but she’s still only 15.”

After Lily’s confession about Jean’s psyche, Kat finds a moment to have a chat with the distressed mum-of-two. A confession from Jean soon follows, which leaves Kat feeling stunned. What news is she privy to that leaves her feeling so surprised?

“Kat can’t believe what she’s hearing,” reveals our source. “You’ll have to watch to find out exactly what Jean comes clean about, but it says a lot that Kat’s next move is to make a vow of support.

“Considering all the tension between Jean and Zoe recently, it must be something of real significance for Kat to pledge her allegiance like that. Hopefully, it’s one step closer towards the Slater family once again becoming the close-knit clan that we know and love…”

Kat’s next move is to organise a community dinner at The Vic on Christmas Day, rallying Alfie and Zoe to make this festive season a positive one.

As Kat throws her weight behind Jean, could this be the breakthrough that helps heal the deep fractures in the Slaters? Or will Jean continue to find life difficult without Stacey by her side?