According to Age UK, almost a million older adults in the UK go for more than a month without seeing or speaking to anyone. People who access care and support often have a unique set of factors which increase the risk of social isolation. Increasing frailty, possible declines in overall health, absent or uninvolved relatives or children, economic struggles can all add to the feeling of isolation. Retirement, the abrupt end of daily work relationships, the death of close friends or spouses can also contribute to social isolation.

Social isolation can lead to the deterioration of physical health, including mobility issues. It can also cause debilitating emotional problems, such as depression and anxiety.

Our experience is that many people who access a support service don't necessarily need a lot of hands-on support. They sometimes just need a companion. A companion can support with various enjoyable activities and social outings: someone they can chat and discuss things with, at home or out-and-about.

If there's room in your life for someone, we can help. We have found that getting together and spending quality time with someone who understands you and is genuinely interested in you and your life, can help you feel happy and positive.