Loneliness is more than just a fleeting feeling; it’s a complex emotional experience that affects millions of people across the UK. Defined as the subjective sense of being isolated or disconnected from others, loneliness has reached alarming levels, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in 2021 around 7.4% of adults in the UK reported feeling lonely “often” or “always”. This percentage increased significantly when people were asked if they had felt lonely at any point in the past week, rising to 38% of the UK population. This highlights a growing public concern.
People who are experiencing loneliness can take many proactive steps to improve their situation, as highlighted by NHS research. Engaging in social activities, reaching out to friends and family and getting involved with community programmes can foster connections and alleviate feelings of isolation.
As an organisation committed to supporting our community, BIAS has initiated the Volunteer Project, which aims to benefit not only those we serve but also the volunteers themselves. This project encourages people to connect, share experiences and build meaningful relationships, while addressing the issue of loneliness from multiple angles. We aim to foster a sense of community and create an environment where everyone feels valued and connected.
Some of our service users and volunteers have shared their experiences:
“It helped me to go out more and have the confidence to meet other people.”
“I feel less isolated because I meet my volunteer every week. She is a friend now.”
“Volunteering made me feel like I had a purpose again.”
In addition to our volunteer project, BIAS also runs Active Ageing Clubs twice a week, offering social dances, bingo games and refreshments. These gatherings provide a lively and welcoming environment where members of our community can reconnect with others, enjoy activities and meet new people. The clubs not only offer a fun way to stay active but also help participants feel a strong connection with their roots and cultural traditions, while building new friendships. By fostering these connections, the Active Ageing Clubs play an essential role in reducing feelings of loneliness and promoting a sense of belonging within our community.
Here’s what some of the club members had to say:
“I’ve made lots of new friends.”
“It gets me out and about.”
“They were so welcoming.”
“I hardly went out before I went to the clubs.”
At BIAS, we believe that fostering human connection is the key to building a more inclusive community, which helps to combat loneliness. Through initiatives like the Volunteer Project and Active Ageing Clubs, we are working to create spaces where people of all ages feel valued, supported and engaged.
We invite everyone to get involved, whether by volunteering, participating in our activities, or simply reaching out to someone in need. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who may be feeling isolated, ensuring that no one has to face loneliness alone.
Click here for more details about how to get involved: Volunteer Project | Active Ageing Clubs