UK Invests in Activity Organizations as Part of Campaign Against Loneliness

January 11, 2019

England is set to tackle the loneliness crisis with a £11.5m cash injection in to projects that combat this often overlooked, yet devastating, health issue. Of the more than 120 initiatives that will receive funding, many of them incorporate sport and activity to help those affected while reducing stigma. 

The UK government believes the health impact of loneliness is on a par with obesity and smoking. It says loneliness is associated with a greater risk of smoking, coronary heart disease and stroke as well as an increased risk of depression, low self-esteem, sleep problems and Alzheimer’s disease.

One hundred and twenty-six projects have been chosen to receive up to £100,000 each in the first ever government-backed fund to tackle a problem that Prime Minister, Theresa May, described as “incredibly damaging to our humanity” when she launched a national loneliness strategy in October.

The Ramblers, a charity representing the interests of walkers, will receive £89,000 to arrange short one- or two-mile rambles for the bereaved.

“There is a triple benefit from walking in groups,” said Brendan Paddy, who is developing the Ramblers’ friendship walks. “You are physically active, building social connections and there is evidence that just being outdoors, ideally in green spaces, is really good for your mental wellbeing.

The projects will target a wide range of groups across England, from isolated Pakistani women in Bradford to young LGBTQ+ in Bristol and lonely elderly men in Cornwall.

Mims Davies MP, who was appointed as the new Minister for Loneliness, said: “I am committed to encouraging open conversations around this sensitive topic to reduce the stigma and create an environment where everyone is better connected.”

Rural Coffee Caravan in Suffolk will buy a new camper van that will travel to quiet villages in the East Anglian countryside and set up temporary cafes. It will also provide information on the availability of exercise classes, welfare payments for carers and befriending service. 

“Loneliness is just so damaging,” said Ann Osborn, the organization’s director. “Lonely people are more likely to have problems with obesity, have heart disease and suffer from depression. But also they cut themselves off and so the community suffers.”

Article from theguardian.co.uk