9-15 June is Loneliness Awareness Week. Established in 2017 by a UK charity, this week allows us to open up conversations about loneliness, reduce the stigma surrounding it, and encourage people to build meaningful social connections.
Approximately 7% of adults in England, equal to 3.1 million people, report feeling lonely “often or always.” In addition, 49.6% of UK adults, or about 26 million people, say they feel lonely occasionally, sometimes, or often.
Loneliness is a natural human emotion, but when it becomes chronic, it can have serious implications for mental and physical health. Research indicates that prolonged loneliness is linked to increased risks of heart disease, stroke, depression, cognitive decline, and even early death. In fact, its health impact is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Why do we talk about loneliness in June?
The start of the summer is a season often associated with social activities, which can paradoxically highlight feelings of loneliness for those who feel disconnected. It may be a time when feelings of loneliness are most pronounced, but it is also the time rich in opportunities to get together with others and form meaningful connections.
Can we help?
A large part of our work as a charity is around building strong inclusive communities. Every week we run groups to help people get together for tea and a chat, bond around a shared interest, spend time outdoors walking or gardening, enjoy a sports activity, learn to swim, ride a bike, or create artwork as part of a group.
Even though loneliness is a familiar emotion to most people, there is still a stigma surrounding it and taking a first step to join an activity and meet others is often the most difficult thing to do.
Hear what the members of one of our social groups have to say:
If you would like to join a group or know someone who can benefit from being part of a regular social activity, check our community groups and socials below:
Click here for the Community Connections Timetable: wellbeing groups, art groups, interest groups, mental health support groups, sports activities, walking, gardening and more.
Click here for Shifa Network to find activities for ethnically diverse women: learn English, study for a driving test, learn how to swim or ride a bike, be part of a friendly community.
Come to the Catalyst Support office in Woking to join Outline LGBTQ+ meetups – next one is on 26th June 7-9pm.
There are many ways to get involved with others and be around like-minded people, contributing to the common goal. If you feel like joining our team of over 100 volunteers to help run groups, maintain our gardens, serve customers and sort books in the bookshop, or work with one of our office teams, get in touch and become part of our growing community.
References:
Guide to loneliness | Loneliness Awareness Week
Community Life Survey 2023/24: Background and headline findings – GOV.UK