The subject of loneliness and isolation is one we're hearing a lot about recently. The Scottish Government has just launched its consultation on it - the Equal Opportunities Committee report found that social isolation and loneliness is a problem in Scotland and recommends that a national strategy be developed to tackle it. They are seeking views on it until 27 April 2018.
Stirling Council has also recently launched its own project titled, LinkAge Stirling, on the issue, which aims to reduce social isolation by helping people feel more connected with their communities.
Older people are one group at particular risk as our evidence suggests.
In an article published today, Monarch Mobility speaks about this evidence, and makes reference to Iriss prompt cards that can be used by practitioners to think about preventative approaches to maintain and build social and community connections for older people. The article provides practical advice on how to avoid loneliness in older age, as well as some up-to-date statistics on the topic.
It will be interesting to see what unfolds as a result of the consultation and the various projects underway.
