As Coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads across the UK, it will be harder for people to maintain their social connections.
In response, Kate Shurety, Executive Director of the Campaign to End Loneliness said:
“For many people there will be a tough, but necessary period of social isolation. Many of us will miss family and friends and taking part in our hobbies, interests and activities.
It shows how important friendship and connection are in our lives, and how difficult it can be when they’re missing. This reminds us that for too many people their lives are often quite a lot like this.
Research shows that half a million older people regularly experience these kinds of protracted periods of isolation, going at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all.”
Staying in touch
Making sure that you stay in touch with friends, family and neighbours can help to ease any feelings of loneliness you and others may experience while in isolation.
- Call your friends, colleagues and relatives regularly on the phone and see how they are.
- Create WhatsApp groups with neighbours, family or friends. Share how you’re getting on and ask other people how they are.
- Ask a friend to cook a meal, watch a film or read a book at the same time as you on Skype or FaceTime.
- Use Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date and keep in touch.
Technology can’t replace the power of human connection, but there are ways of staying connected in isolation that will help.
For many of us this will be a difficult time. These measures are to protect as many people from the worst effects of coronavirus and this will be temporary”.
Further links
It’s important though that we keep in touch and stay up to date with the latest health guidance on the NHS website.
If you’re feeling anxious or worried about Coronavirus the charity Mind have some great advice and guidance on their website“
Find out how to make a difference in your local area using these tips from Eden Communities.
