Our Report on Social Isolation & Loneliness

During August - November 2023, 120 local people in Redbridge completed our survey on social isolation and loneliness.

Findings reveal that poor health is a leading cause of isolation, and that those in good health, are much less likely to be affected.

Of the respondents citing poor health, three quarters (73%) say they often feel isolated, two thirds (64%) lack companionship, go out just once a week (or less), or have poor life satisfaction, and almost half (45%) feel ‘left out’ and have inadequate support networks.

We have heard about a lack of awareness on what is available, a lack of support or difficulty with costs, poor self-esteem and motivation, and family, friends or neighbours who are ‘too busy’ to assist.

More generally, we are told that coping after bereavement can be difficult, and take a long time, and that the evenings can be especially difficult.

There is a difference between the genders – women are more likely to lack companionship and to feel ‘left out’ while men are more likely to feel isolated, and as a whole, are ‘less satisfied’ with life.

On households, we are surprised to find that those living alone, are less likely to feel isolated, and also go out more often - than those living with others.

Click here to read the full report.