Charity launches campaign to combat loneliness

A friendly group session, part of the 'Make Someone's Day' campaign

A charity has begun a campaign to help combat what it calls epidemic levels of loneliness and isolation.

The organisation 'Ageing Better' has begun a campaign called 'Make Someone's Day' which encourages neighbours to check in on and chat with each other.

According to the Campaign to End Loneliness the number of people over the age of 50 experiencing loneliness in the UK is set to reach two million by 2025/6. This compares to around 1.4 million in 2016/7. It would be A 49% increase in the space of ten years.

Daniel Skipp went to meet some of the people who have been attending group sessions organised by 'Ageing Better'.

For more information and support in combating loneliness you can visit:

Age UKCampaign to End LonelinessMindIndependent Age

You can also visit your GP, or call NHS 111.

If you need confidential emotional support you can also contact the Samaritans on their website or by telephoning 116 123 for free