It is usually assumed that young people in their early 20s have full and varied social lives and that it is the elderly who suffer most from the loneliness that is especially acute at Christmas time.

That some older people in our community do suffer loneliness is sadly true. Reduced mobility, rural living, poor public transport, loss of friends and family all contribute to isolation. For those that can get to them, the daytime friendship groups with activities, tea, biscuits and conversation, memory cafes, and tai chi or exercise classes on offer locally are well subscribed, supported and valued.

Perhaps more surprising is the loneliness amongst young people, especially those in their 20s, who by some measures are the loneliest age group in the UK. Most of us probably imagine, encouraged by popular culture with TV shows such as Friends, that this cohort is in the prime of their social and friendship life. The reality is sadly not always so vibrant. According to Office for National Statistics (ONS) research published last month, 33% of 16- to 29-year-olds reported feeling lonely ‘often, always or some of the time’. This, compared to only 17% of over-70s, is the highest of all age groups. 

Experts say the ‘scattering’ effect caused as people move to different places for education and jobs causes disruptions. It is not helped by house shares with strangers and the ongoing impact of Covid, with work from home more common and friend contacts increasingly on social media. Other factors also play a part. Around the world people are getting married and having children later, or not at all. According to the ONS the average age of first marriage in the UK is now 31. In 1970 it was 23 for men and 21 for women. If friends don’t deliver emotional connection, then loneliness can follow.

There are severe health consequences resulting from long-term loneliness so it’s good to find some success stories, although there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution. Young people volunteering regularly with local heritage groups found working with others on a project started them on a route into further education and employment. The Great Friendship Project, a non-profit group combating loneliness for under 35s by organising walks in a London park, was established in 2021. Apparently, it works because: ‘Everyone’s in the same boat, that brings down barriers and you know you’re not going to be judged’.