Reduce loneliness and isolation

Whatever the cause, it's easy to be left feeling alone and vulnerable. It can have a serious impact on your health and wellbeing.

It's important to remember loneliness can - and does - affect anyone, of any age.

What you can do

Join a support group

A support group can give you the opportunity to meet new people in similar situations to you, giving you a chance to talk about everyday problems with others who understand. Visit our care and support services website Locate: care and support in County Durham. It is a free online database which allows you to search county-wide, regional and national information for social care, health and community information, such as arts, leisure, sports and social groups and organisations.

Volunteer

If you're missing the social connections you used to have through work, you could also consider Volunteering.

Activities

You can take part in our group activities such as

• walking
• running
• swimming
• cycling
• guided countryside walks
• mindfulness
• reading groups
• beginners drama
• beginners dance
• creative writing
• learning digital skills
• outdoor learning

See our Community classes page for the latest activity programme.

Friendship calls

• Age UK: Befriending services: you can sign up for a free weekly friendship call with Age UK. They also offer face-to-face befriending.
• The Silver Line: providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
• Independent Age - receive regular phone calls: if you're feeling in need of a good chat with someone who cares, their volunteers can provide a regular chat over the phone.