Helping those who are lonely and isolated in my local community

Findings from The Office of National Statistics indicate that over 4.2 million people in the UK have described themselves as ‘always’ or ‘often’ lonely during the COVID pandemic.

This is exacerbated in the elderly population, with over 20,000 elderly people where I live in Hertfordshire saying they 'always' or 'often' feel lonely. Loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and can double the chances of developing Alzheimer’s.

Long-term loneliness is associated with an increased risk of certain mental health problems, including depression, anxiety and increased stress. 

With all this impacting my local community, I couldn’t sit by and do nothing.

So today marks day one of my 12 days of Christmas fancy dress challenge! I will be wearing 12 Christmas themed costumes to my many work video calls.

I’m raising money for 2 local charities that directly support the mental health and isolation of some of the most vulnerable in the local community; Age UK Herts and Samaritans North Herts. All the money raised will directly support the critical frontline services these charities provide to the most isolated and alone.

I hope I can create some festive cheer by sharing my costumes far and wide. Donations and/or sharing with your networks are welcomed but not expected.

https://www.justgiving.com/team/12daysofchristmasfancydress

Ho Ho Ho!

#mentalhealth #12daysofchristmas #12daysofwinter#loneliness #standingtogether