Loneliness is a major issue in the UK, affecting people of all ages. A 2022 report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that around 2.6 million adults in England often feel lonely. This problem spans across generations, with younger people increasingly experiencing isolation due to digital communication and reduced face-to-face interactions. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened these feelings, disrupting traditional support networks. Loneliness contributes to serious health issues like depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular diseases. Addressing it is crucial for improving individual well-being and alleviating broader social and economic impacts.
What’s Being Done About It?
Social prescribing aims to combat isolation by connecting individuals with local activities. However, many befriending services target the elderly, despite high loneliness rates among younger generations. There is also a lack of services for those with mental health conditions or suicidal thoughts. Expanding befriending services to include these groups is essential. This involves training volunteers to handle sensitive issues and providing specialized support to ensure everyone has access to companionship and connection.
Education on loneliness is crucial but underrepresented in health and social care studies. Despite its severe impact, loneliness is not taken seriously in primary and secondary services due to traditional curricula, stigma, and lack of guidelines. Health and social care programs need comprehensive training on loneliness to equip professionals to effectively combat social isolation.
And Then Keep Talking Services Was Born
Keep Talking Services is a telephone befriending service pairing health and social care students with individuals in our local community suffering from loneliness and mental health conditions. Established during my second year as a mental health nursing student, this service creates a safe space for those in isolation to have a voice while students learn. Our model encourages students to dedicate one hour per week to provide social interaction and support. This dual-beneficiary approach ensures clients receive companionship while students develop communication skills and gain awareness through training and real-life experiences.
Safety is a priority, with robust risk management and safeguarding procedures in place. Currently, 71 student volunteers across the UK balance their academic responsibilities while making a significant impact. This flexible service allows students to earn their degrees, understand mental health and loneliness, and change lives. We are making around 500 phone calls every month, fostering connections that truly matter.
By involving more students, we can support more individuals suffering from loneliness and mental health conditions, creating meaningful change in our communities. HEIs support can help Keep Talking Services grow and make every connection count. Students can get involved via the Keep Talking Services website.
