Image courtesy of Sabuh Shanashi from Freepix
In today's society, loneliness seems to have taken a backseat on the government's agenda. With the rising cost of living and soaring fuel bills, the government's focus seems to have shifted to basic survival—ensuring people have food on their tables and keeping their homes warm. This reactive approach has come in the wake of unchecked cost increases and energy companies doubling their rates, leaving citizens to grapple with financial strain.
Loneliness, I would describe as a "pergotary," continues to ravage the population, leading to severe health complications both mental and physical. Despite its profound impact, it remains neglected, overshadowed by this more immediate crisis. Studies have shown that chronic loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, contributing to heart disease, stroke, and even early mortality. Isn't is common sense to stamp this out!
Food Poverty and Fuel Economy
As we strive to address the visible issues of hunger and energy poverty, we must not forget the silent suffering of those isolated and alone. It is common sense, especially now as more and young and old people have it on their radar. A society that turns a blind eye to the epidemic of loneliness risks exacerbating a public health crisis, one that will require more than just sporadic attention in the future.
2020
6% of people in Great Britain reported feeling lonely often or always[ "1").
- This equates to approximately **3.24 million people ( "1").
2024
-7% of people in England reported feeling lonely often or always
-This equates to approximately 3.1 million people in England( "2").
It's interesting to note that the percentage of people reporting chronic loneliness has increased slightly from 2020 to 2024
( "2").
However before lockdown very few young people reported feeling lonely, today loneliness statistics for young people surpass 70 year olds.
This indicates that loneliness remains a significant issue despite the passage of time and there are different age groups to consider nowadays.
BIRMINGHAM NEWS state
Based on recent government actions and statements, it appears that the cost of living and fuel costs are currently higher priorities compared to loneliness[2). The government has been actively addressing these issues through various support schemes and consultations aimed at alleviating financial burdens on households( "1")( "2").
While loneliness is a significant concern, it hasn't received the same level of immediate reactive attention or dedicated resources as the economic challenges
( "1")[("2"). However, there is growing recognition of the importance of mental health and social well-being, so it's possible that loneliness may become a more prominent focus in the future.
If we again respond to Loneliness instead of react today becasue we know loneliness/mental health and suicide rates are soaring, and its consequences over an overall lifespan it will never end.
Common Sense
I believe we cannot ignore loneliness. It is common sense to act not. That by providing minimal funding to low-cost chat groups, by others creating chat groups that bring people together, we can destigmatise loneliness and build transformative relationships. This simple approach will help build resilience, confidence, offer emotional support, and alleviate the pressure of high food and fuel bills by fostering a sense of community, rather than living in isolation and disconnection from real life. Additionally, it could reduce the needs for emotional eating and lower fuel costs as weight is lost and people exercise more as social mobility improve. As self value returns it will also take the pressure off the NHS .
(1) [43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/facts-and-statistics/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1").
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