Influencing Opportunity (20) - Welsh Government Consultation on Tackling loneliness and social isola
As part of our commitment to influencing and engaging, we share the information below with you.
If you believe this is a priority area for further discussion at one of DVSC’s network meetings or Membership Forum do let us know.
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Welsh Government Consultation on Tackling loneliness and social isolation
The Welsh Government has launched a national conversation on what can be done to combat loneliness and social isolation in Wales. The National Survey for Wales 2016-17 found that 17% of the population of Wales, around 440,000 people, reported being lonely, while younger people were more likely to be lonely than older people: 20% of 16-24 year olds were lonely, compared with 10% of those aged 75 or over. Loneliness and social isolation can result in a number of physical and psychological problems including premature death, sleep problems, high blood pressure, poor quality of life, increased risk of heart attack and stroke, depression and suicide. Research demonstrates that loneliness has an effect on mortality that is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. The economic consequences of loneliness and isolation can also be significant. The Eden Project found the cost of social isolation and disconnected communities in Wales could reach £2.6bn a year. The Welsh Government’s Programme for Government, Taking Wales Forward includes a commitment to develop a nationwide and cross-government strategy to address these issues. The strategy will cover people of all ages and all backgrounds. The Welsh Government’s proposed approach to tackling the issues is to focus on intervening early to prevent chronic loneliness, given its wider effects on health and well-being, and resultant pressure on NHS and social care services. However, there is also a need to ensure that support is available for those who are, or who become, chronically lonely. The Welsh Government has identified some areas where action can make a significant contribution to reducing loneliness and social isolation:
Early years – Improving an individual’s experiences in childhood will play a significant part in shaping their future, including developing strong and positive relationships later in life;
Housing – Ensuring people live in safe and secure neighbourhoods, in the right accommodation;
Social Care – Providing compassionate, dignified care plays a critical role in ensuring people can be healthy and remain independent for longer;
Mental Health – Ensuring people maintain good mental health is crucial in maintaining good health, well-being and independence, with access to appropriate support services when necessary;
Skills and employability – Ensuring people have the right skills to secure decent, sustainable employment opportunities.
The Consultation can be found by clicking here and is open until the 15th of January
