Tips for mid-life singletons

JOIN local groups to meet people with similar interests ( meetup.com is good) or who live in your neck of the woods ( nextdoor.co.uk).

GET to know your neighbours. You don’t have to be best friends, but it’s good to have their details in case of emergencies.

CONSIDER a pet if your circumstances allow. If not, maybe join BorrowMyDoggy ( borrowmydoggy.com) for a part-time step-pet.

REDECORATE your home to make it your own. Even a quick coat of paint will freshen up the place and provide a brighter backdrop.

INVEST in the right level of security. Ensure all doors and windows have good-quality locks. An alarm system gives further reassurance.

Your local police can give

advice. Sign up for their Alert two - way community messaging system (neighbour hoodalert.co.uk). Also join your Neighbourhood Watch ( ourwatch.org.uk)

GET rid of anything that brings back bad memories or ties you to the past in a negative way.

BACKGROUND music can make a home feel welcoming — and take the edge off the silence.