Loneliness Awareness Week 2022
*PLEASE BE AWARE THIS IS AN OLDER POST AND THERE MAY BE A MORE UP TO DATE POST, OR UPDATED INFORMATION AVAILABLE ON https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ *
Loneliness Awareness Week was created by Marmalade Trust as an annual campaign to raise awareness of loneliness across the UK. This year’s campaign will run from Monday 13th June to Friday 17th June. Loneliness doesn’t just affect older people, it can be apparent at all stages of life and talking openly about loneliness can help fight the stigma and share ways on how to manage it.
Loneliness and volunteering
We’re lucky to have a total of 26 volunteers here at Citizens Advice Wigan Borough, helping us to deliver free, confidential and judgement-free advice to residents. Whilst the work they do has a positive impact on the local community, it also has a positive impact on themselves. One of our volunteers, Phillip, said:
“I have found that being a part of Citizens Advice gives me the opportunity to be part of a friendly, supportive team that helps build relationships with people, as well as reducing anxiety.”
“There is always someone to talk to about any concerns that arise and there is real satisfaction in being part of an organisation that provides a valuable service to the community. Volunteering provides the chance to meet new people, learn new skills and prepare for work in a gradual way. I have found it very encouraging and I am sure that anyone who feels alone and insecure will benefit greatly in becoming part of the team.”
Interested in volunteering with us? Find out more on our website!
Loneliness and the local community
We were able to hear from members attending a coffee morning run by Wigan and Leigh Pensioner Link, a local charity that works with people over 50 to support them with a range of things including friendships, feelings, wellbeing, and social activities, in order to reduce isolation and promote happy and sociable lives.
They said awareness is important to promote local support and make it more accessible to residents, highlighting that local transport needs to be addressed to enable people to access activities easily, and social activities should be available in the week as they can be hard to attend at weekends. Raising awareness on these issues and the current support available through various local organisations and people is important to improve accessibility and help residents manage loneliness. One member of the group attending said “Except for coming here, I would not speak to anyone”.
Loneliness and digital exclusion
We understand that, in an age of increased reliance on online and digital services, many have become digitally excluded which can make accessing advice difficult and residents can experience loneliness. That’s why we run our Community advice hubs, where residents can be supported to access video advice. There is no need for an appointment, internet connection or a webcam. Residents can simply turn up at one of our locations and use our equipment to speak to an adviser. Staff are available in the hubs to help people if needed.
If you need help or advice, get in touch with our team today - call us free on 0808 2787 801, or complete the contact form on our website to speak to one of our advisers.
