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Tackling loneliness in Lancashire

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Lancashire County Council has launched a report and guidelines to help tackle loneliness and social isolation.

The report, called ‘Hidden from View’, was launched at a recent event at County Hall, Preston.

Social isolation and loneliness can both impact hugely on people’s health and wellbeing. Research has shown that being socially isolated can have a similar effect on people’s health to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Ill-health linked to people being socially isolated or lonely may cost the NHS and social care system in Lancashire up to £200m each year.

The report aims to give guidance on new ways of working, so that partner organisations can work together effectively on tackling social isolation and loneliness.

Ways of identifying people who may be lonely or isolated, information about which parts of Lancashire and which people are most affected, and what sort of activities can best address loneliness and isolation, are some of the topics covered in the report.

County Councillor Azhar Ali, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Tackling loneliness and isolation is absolutely crucial. It has a massive effect on people’s health.

“Around 35,000 older people in Lancashire are classed as lonely, so it’s a huge issue for us and all the organisations involved in health and social care across the county.

“There is already a lot of good work being done, but Hidden from View will help to build on this and suggest different measures, which these organisations can put in place to help to more quickly identify people who are isolated or lonely.

“It also suggests ways of working more closely together, to help those who are feeling lonely to get the help and support they need.

“We were pleased that so many people attended the event at County Hall and showed their commitment to tackling this issue.”

The Hidden from View report was produced following in-depth research about people suffering from loneliness and isolation in Lancashire, and the effectiveness of work being done to address the issue.

Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, director of public health for Lancashire County Council, added: “Loneliness and isolation are two separate issues. Not everyone who is isolated and spends most of their time alone is lonely, but they may become lonely. On the flip-side, not everyone feeling lonely is isolated from their friends, family or community.

“There are triggers that can lead to loneliness, such as the loss of a friend or loved one, illness or disability, or the loss of a driving licence. This report will help people identify these issues more effectively.

“Every time staff from the council, NHS, police or local charities and community groups come into contact with people, it’s an opportunity for them to identify people who are lonely and isolated.

“We’ve recommended a new approach where professionals can make the most of these opportunities and put people in touch with someone who can help.

“These measures won’t cost organisations much time and money to put in place, but they’ll make a huge difference.

“There are already lots of different types of support available such as befriending services and teaching people how to use Facebook or Twitter to connect with family they don’t see. People are also encouraged to take part in activities to fulfil their lifetime ambitions.

“We hope Hidden from View will help to make people aware of the important issue of loneliness and isolation, and help everyone play their part in ensuring fewer people suffer through being or feeling alone.”

The council is working closely with the Lancashire Wellbeing Service and interested community groups to address loneliness and isolation.

To view a copy of the Hidden From View report, visit: www.lancashire.gov.uk/lancashire-insight/health-and-care/mental-health-and-wellbeing/social-isolation-and-loneliness.aspx

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