The Campaign to End Loneliness has released a survey and new online guidance advising local authorities of the essential services that are needed to support lonely older people.
Janet Morrison, Chief Executive of Independent Age, the older people’s charity and a founding member of the Campaign to End Loneliness, said:
"The physical and mental health consequences of loneliness for older people must not be underestimated and we support the call on local authorities to take more action in preventing and reducing loneliness. We welcome the new guidance for local authorities and in particular the reminder that there are real benefits for councils in tackling isolation and loneliness. Not only are there potential savings for health and social care services but lonely and isolated people are valuable members of their communities, with skills and knowledge to share."