MP backs friendship line to ease loneliness

Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart doesn’t want anyone to be alone this winter and is promoting Age Scotland’s national friendship line to older constituents who might be needing someone to talk to.

It comes after research carried out by the charity showed that more than 157,000 over 65’s in Scotland are expecting to feel lonely over the festive season. Mr Wishart is worried this could mean as many as two older people on every street in Perth and North Perthshire end up feeling lonely this Christmas.

He said:“This year has been tough for us all and I know that it has been particularly difficult for those older people living on their own. Older people living in single households make up a large number of my constituents in Perthshire and I would urge them to reach out to Age Scotland if they are needing help.”

Age Scotland’s free phone service offers older people the opportunity to chat with people who can offer support and friendship through the festive season.

Volunteers are available to chat with people over the age of 50 about anything they want to discuss, and they can even schedule a regular weekly call.

Age Scotland’s national friendship line can be contacted by dialling 0800 12 44 222 and will be manned by volunteers from 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.