Tackling loneliness: Listening, leading, and legislating for connection
In the early weeks of becoming an MP, I launched a listening initiative to better understand the deep-rooted challenges of loneliness and social isolation across my constituency. My first session in Slaithwaite set the tone – residents shared heartfelt stories of disconnection, resilience, and the barriers they face in forming meaningful relationships. Since then, I’ve held sessions in every corner of the constituency, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
They’ve revealed the quiet struggles of those who feel invisible, the tireless efforts of community groups striving to bring people together, and the innovative ideas that could transform lives if given the right support. To amplify these voices, I hosted a Parliamentary reception, sharing insights and encouraging cross-party collaboration on this pressing issue.
Building on this momentum, I was honoured to be elected Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Tackling Loneliness and Connected Communities. This role enables me to bring local experiences to the national stage, advocating for policies that foster connection and belonging.
The UK led the way globally by appointing a Minister for Loneliness in 2018 and publishing a national strategy that recognised loneliness as a serious public health issue – linked to heart disease, depression, and early mortality. Since then, progress has been made: hundreds of community projects have received support, public awareness campaigns have reduced stigma, and loneliness considerations have been embedded into policymaking.
Notable successes include the “Let’s Talk Loneliness” campaign and the £4 million Local Connections Fund, which has empowered grassroots organisations to deliver local solutions. Yet, challenges remain. Cross-sector collaboration – between government, charities, and businesses – is essential but demands sustained investment, clear communication, and shared goals. The pandemic further highlighted the importance of digital inclusion and the need to support those who are not online.
Loneliness affects people of all ages – from young people grappling with social anxiety to older adults living alone. Effective interventions require collaboration with public services, charities, and communities. Schools, GP surgeries, libraries, and housing associations all play a vital role in identifying and supporting those at risk.
Social prescribing is one promising approach, where GPs refer patients to non-clinical services like walking groups or art classes. These initiatives improve wellbeing and strengthen community ties – but they must be properly funded and backed by a robust voluntary sector.
Those who have faced loneliness often have the most insightful ideas for tackling it. Their voices must shape service design and delivery, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity.
Recent policy developments have begun embedding loneliness into broader health and wellbeing strategies. The government’s “Renewal” agenda offers a chance to invest in community infrastructure – parks, centres, and transport links – that reduce isolation.
However, long-term sustainability demands multi-year funding and support for core costs, especially for smaller, hyper-local organisations. Data and evaluation – both quantitative and qualitative – are essential to understand what works.
In a time of competing demands, loneliness must remain a priority. The human and economic cost of inaction is too high. As Chair of the APPG, I am committed to keeping this issue at the forefront of political debate. Together, we can build a society where everyone feels they belong – because connection is not a luxury, it’s a fundamental human need.
Paul Davies is the Labour Member of Parliament for Colne Valley.
