Do we need a government minister for loneliness?

IT WILL be interesting to see what proposals Tracey Crouch, the new minister for loneliness, develops to meet the needs of the nine million people affected by this problem. Loneliness is a symptom of our materialistic society: most people focus on self-interest rather than helping meet the needs of their neighbour. Rather than throwing cash into new ventures for lonely people, the Government should encourage a change of heart and attitude of the majority who are not lonely. J. Longstaff, Buxted, E. Sussex. WHEN I lost my husband a year ago, the one expense I did not factor in for widowhood was the cost of conversation. It costs money every time I speak: phone calls; heating, electricity and food for visitors; travelling expenses for days out; subs for clubs. And even then there are many isolated hours. Lonely is a poor word for social isolation.

LiZ SHArmAN, Latimer, Northants. HOW I agree with Bel Mooney who asked that when it comes to the lonely, what about the family? I am a retired divorcee and live on my own. My immediate family live less than two miles away, but I am lucky to see them a handful of times a year. They tell me they are ‘so busy’ and when I call to see them, I am made to feel I am intruding. My only child sends a text once a fortnight to see how I am, but never phones because he says he doesn’t have the time.

Name supplied, Leeds. THERE is no reason for those who are fit and healthy to be lonely. Get involved in the local community, meet new people and create opportunities for yourself. I am retired and live on my own, and this approach has worked for me. F. HUBBARD, Leamington Spa, Warks.