Loneliness is as bad as 'smoking 15 cigarettes a day'

Loneliness levels are rising in the UK since coronavirus – and a Bolton charity has been stepping in to help. Almost 30 per cent of UK residents over 16 said they often, sometimes or always feel lonely in the ONS’ Opinions and Lifestyle Survey – a record high since 2020. And the North West is known for its elevated loneliness rates.

In Lancashire, six per cent of Bolton over-16s and adults surveyed said they felt lonely, and almost 20 per cent in Blackburn and Darwen. The Campaign to End Loneliness (CEL) defines the condition as “a subjective, unwelcome feeling of lack or loss of companionship.” And the World Health Organisation has called it a "global health concern".

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has said: “Loneliness increases the risk for premature death by 26 per cent. “More broadly, lacking social connection can increase it as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.” Family Action BAND event (Image: Family Action) Bolton charity Family Action BAND has been on the frontline of battling loneliness.

It provides support, social groups and activities for adults with mental health issues. This year, more than 500 people accessed their services as of March. From April to March, almost twice the people attended as the same time last year.

Rita Croome , Operational Manager at Family Action BAND, said: “We've had more people coming through our doors saying they are experiencing loneliness.” And the pandemic has played a huge part. She said: “ Coronaviru.