Christmas loneliness spikes within the UK with one in three fearing they’re going to be alone
Nearly half of adults reckon spending time with loved ones is the best way to show you care during the festive season. However, recent research reveals that over the past five years, a quarter of Brits feel their loneliness has escalated, especially during Christmas.
The study shows that 17% will have their Christmas dinner solo and nearly two-thirds won’t have the opportunity to catch up with friends and family about their life events. Which has become a concern for many as half fear they’ll become lonelier as they age.
The survey was commissioned by Hallmark. Ruth Turner-Blood, the chief writer at the card company, commented, “Christmas is often viewed as a time of joy and unity, but for many individuals, feelings of loneliness can intensify during the festive season.”
“There’s a stark contrast between the idealised image of a happy family celebration and the reality some face but frequently, the smallest gestures can make all the difference during the festive season.”
To help youngsters understand the significance of bringing people together over the holidays the card company took a group of children to visit elderly residents at Horsforth Manor Care Home in Leeds.
At the event the children learnt the importance of reaching out to people you care about, or who might miss you, and were told honestly about how tough it can be to feel alone during this period.
In a bid to combat loneliness this Christmas, 37% of people plan to send a thoughtful card and a third will extend an invitation for a meal to a loved one they’re concerned about.
The study also revealed that 34% will make a phone or video call to someone they can’t be with in person to help alleviate their solitude. Additionally, 44% will specifically post a card to someone they believe may be feeling isolated.
Ruth Turner-Blood from Hallmark commented: “Something as simple as sending a thoughtful message in a card can show someone that they’re in your thoughts, especially if they’re feeling isolated. We want to help people feel more connected this festive season, showing how even the smallest of gestures can be meaningful to someone.”
Top 10 things people are doing to help others feel less lonely at Christmas:
- Send a thoughtful card.
- Invite them for a meal.
- Share a small gift.
- Cook a meal for them.
- Include them in family events.
- Arrange a surprise visit.
- Plan a festive outing.
- Offer a video call.
- Create a care package.
- Organise a group call.
