Loneliness - A grass roots perspective from Herefordshire

This is a report from Healthwatch Herefordshire. The project looks at loneliness amongst local people.

This research adopted a qualitative, mixed method approach to explore experiences and perceptions of loneliness amongst Herefordshire residents. The aim was to gather rich, community informed insights through active engagement with participants from around the county. 

Recruiting participants for this engagement and research project on loneliness was a critical step to ensure a diverse range of perspectives, particularly from those with lived or observed experience of loneliness. Recruitment aimed to reflect the social, and geographic diversity of Herefordshire.

The survey was completed by 164 people.

Key findings include:

• Local authority to support transport and infrastructure with a focus on the rural communities.
• Investment to sustain and increase community transport schemes across the county.
• Health services recognising loneliness as part of holistic person-centred approach.
• Youth services & education to create inclusive spaces and opportunities for young people to build confidence and connections.
• Expand and support volunteer networks at town and village level with transactional and flexible opportunities.
• Tackle stigma by normalising conversations about loneliness and promote 
  positive stories.