THE LONELINESS PANDEMIC

Loneliness and social isolation have been increasing concerns across the world for many years now.

In 2017, the former US Surgeon General, Dr Vivek Merthy, was concerned that “The world is suffering from an epidemic of loneliness….If we cannot rebuild strong, authentic social connections, we will continue to splinter apart — in the workplace and in society.”

This situation will have significantly worsened since this time, and so urgent responses are needed to support those affected in our communities.

It is widely recognized that there is a difference between loneliness and social isolation and it is helpful to be aware of these:

Social isolation is the ‘Absence of social contact’
Loneliness is a feeling of sadness or even anxiety that occurs when someone wants company.

All of us respond to circumstances of feeling alone in different ways, and so it is necessary for us all to acknowledge this in our interactions, and to avoid judging others based on our own experiences or views.

In all our work, we aim to treat people as individuals and this is particularly important when assessing individual circumstances.

OUR APPROACH

LONELINESS AND THE CHURCH

Linking Lives UK believes that the church in the UK is already playing a vital role in many communities to address loneliness and social isolation. There is, though, always more that can be done, and our approach it to enable churches and Christian organizations to reach and support some of the most marginalized people in their community. Our tried and tested approach provides a safe and effective way to demonstrate the love of God in our local neighbourhoods.