Loneliness issue tackled by MSP Angela after visit

Local MSP Angela Constance is seeking’s people’s views on how to help combat loneliness.

She said she welcomed a parliamentary debate which highlighted the important issue of social isolation and loneliness within our communities and its effects.

The Scottish Government has launched a consultation to look at the causes of social isolation and loneliness and how these issues can be addressed throughout our society.

This will run until April 30 2018, and responses will be fed into a new national strategy to combat the issue.

West Lothian have a number of excellent organisations and community groups who are also doing much to tackle the issues of social isolation, and last week Angela visited the Bridge Community Project in Livingston.

She said:“Social isolation and loneliness can affect any one of us, regardless of our age or status, and can also impact on our physical and mental health.

“By working together to prevent it, and in showing real support to our local initiatives, we can make positive improvements to the lives of many within our communities.

“There are many great local organisations within West Lothian working hard to address the factors that can lead to isolation and loneliness.

“And this week I had the pleasure of visiting one such service, The Bridge Community Project, which provides money and debt advice alongside counselling to local residents.”

The MSP continued:“In order to build on the important work done by our local services, I am seeking views from individuals and community groups to help lead the way in shaping future plans, so that those at risk of becoming lonely or isolated have access to the proper support networks, whatever their circumstances may be.”

“In raising this critical issue, we all have the opportunity to effect real change and I would encourage everyone in the Almond Valley to have their say by contributing to the consultation.”