Plea to phone a friend in fight against lockdown loneliness
ONE in four adults cannot remember the last time someone outside their family called to ask how they were.
The research findings will bolster concern about loneliness and isolation as the coronavirus lockdown continues.
People aged 35 to 54 were the least likely to remember receiving such a call, with 31 per cent saying they had not heard from anyone beyond their family.
The polling of more than 2,000 people by Savanta Comres was commissioned by Premier Lifeline, a confidential helpline that offers support from a Christian perspective. It has launched a campaign asking the public to phone at least five people they know it would benefit.
Premier Lifeline director Jonathan Clark said: “Every one of us could play a role in helping a friend or a neighbour and it’s as easy as just picking up the phone.
“With lockdown restrictions expected for some time yet, that phone call could really be the lifeline the person needs.
“Covid and lockdown have shone a light on the extremities of isolation and loneliness that have been an increasingly concerning issue in this nation, even before the pandemic.
“We want this campaign to be a simple reminder to everyone that they can play a part in tackling loneliness and that everyone can make a difference.”
Baroness Barran, the minister with responsibility for loneliness, said: “Every single one of us can do just one small thing a day – whether it be picking up the phone, sending an email, writing a letter, knocking on a neighbour’s door, or arranging to go for a socially distanced walk with someone you know – to ease their feeling of loneliness and make them feel connected.”
She said that while it was
“not the most British thing to open up about your feelings,” she wanted talking about loneliness to “come as naturally as discussing the weather”.
Premier Lifeline can be reached on 0300 111 0101.
People can also volunteer with the NHS through “check in and chat” roles, which match people with a person who needs support.