Helping residents tackle loneliness

A BRAND new initiative has been launched to help tackle loneliness across Leicestershire.

Connecting people is the focus of a new wideranging drive set out by Leicestershire County Council with the aim of helping residents to become better connected and to improve lives of those living in isolation.

Social isolation can affect people’s physical and mental health and new research suggests it can be as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Councillor Pam Posnett, cabinet member for health, said: “There is increasing evidence that loneliness impacts health, wellbeing and independence.

“Through our day-today work, including social workers and trading standards, we’re already doing a great deal.

“But the appointment of a new minister underlines that the Government has recognised the extent of the problem and it’s important we play our part.

“This is about improving lives, and the solution needs everybody to be involved - making and maintaining connections with their neighbours, work colleagues, fellow students and all the other people in their communities.

“We’re committed to building on the great work already taking place and I look forward to the new approach taking shape.”

Over the next few months, the council will be working with the partners in the public, voluntary, private and education sectors to better understand the impact of loneliness and draw up a detailed campaign.