Since the pandemic, it has been more important than ever for the government to tackle loneliness and social isolation.

It was great to meet with the Mental Health Awareness Foundation to mark Loneliness Awareness Week, to highlight the impact loneliness can have on mental health and to reduce stigma against it.

Loneliness can have a serious, detrimental effect on our mental health, and must be taken seriously. However, there are things that we can all do to cope with loneliness and prevent some of its negative effects.

For further information on how to cope with loneliness and improve your mental health, please see this guidance from the Mental Health Foundation.

Age UK have also provided this helpful guide for older people who are feeling lonely, which includes advice on how to deal with loneliness, the causes of loneliness, finding someone to speak to and how older people can make new connections.

Loneliness must be considered a public health issue, and I believe the government can take a strategic approach to combat loneliness and develop community resources that promote social contact, in person and online.