Reduce loneliness and isolation
Anyone at any age can be lonely. We can all take small actions in our communities to build lasting connections.
What is loneliness
Loneliness is a mismatch between the relationships we have and those we want.
While isolation often describes when we’re physically alone, we can experience loneliness even when we’re surrounded by people. Loneliness is our internal warning trigger that tells us something needs to change.
Loneliness can come and go throughout our lives and can affect anyone – even at times that are supposed to be new and exciting. With research showing that our brains treat loneliness in the same way as physical pain, loneliness can affect both our mental and physical health.
There are solutions we can all weave into our day to day lives to overcome loneliness. When people connect in their communities, we all see lasting positive results.
Introduction to Community Action course
Jam-packed with workshops, inspirational talks, networking and fun, the Introduction to Community Action course is for anyone interested in making a difference in their community.
Our closing date has now passed (23 August 2024), but be sure to sign-up to our newsletter to be the first to hear about upcoming courses.
Say no to ‘tackling’ loneliness
A personal story of loneliness from a member of our team.
More than 2/3 adults experience loneliness
It can affect anybody at anytime.
10 random acts of kindness to brighten someone’s day
As Vincent van Gogh wisely said ‘Great things are done by a…
10 ways to keep connected
Making someone’s day and reducing loneliness can start with the smallest of…
How to deal with loneliness
Small actions can help reduce loneliness and isolation in ourselves and others. By reaching out in our communities and building relationships that matter to us, we can help address chronic loneliness – through sharing time, food and friendship. A simple ‘hello’ and stopping to chat can make a big difference to a person experiencing loneliness.
Build connections with a Big Lunch
In 2023, a whopping 14.1 million people brought their neighbours together by taking part in a Big Lunch. That’s 1 in 5 of the UK population! Often all it takes is a simple reason to bring people together – that might be a Big Lunch with the whole street, or simply inviting a neighbour in for a cuppa.
Loneliness charities and support for loneliness
You’re never alone in feeling lonely.
We work with brilliant organisations who help raise awareness and remove stigma around loneliness, bring people together through shared experiences, and offer lifelines such as confidential telephone services. Contact Reengage (for elderly people), The Marmalade Trust or Age UK’s The Silver Line for support.
We also provide practical advice on setting up your own community group or holding a Big Lunch to bring your neighbours together.
John Bishop’s ‘Say hello’ campaign to reduce loneliness
Stories of connection
How we brought isolated people together — with coffee and a caravan!
Ann Osborn is the Director of the Rural Coffee Caravan in Suffolk. The mobile community cafe and information centre helps to alleviate isolation in…
A tale of re-connection at Community Camp
Community Camp is all about making connections: bringing like-minded people from across the UK together to be inspire, educate, and share with one another.