LOCAL organisations are joining forces to spread goodwill in 2018 to those in Bromsgrove experiencing loneliness.
Throughout January, Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust with Worcestershire County Council, Age UK Hereford and Worcestershire and the Reconnections Service, are working to highlight the support available locally to tackle loneliness and isolation.
A recent report by the Jo Cox Commission revealed loneliness was as harmful to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and affected 9million UK residents.
Michelle Clarke, director of Nursing and Quality at Worcestershire Health and Care Trust said: ““There is believed to be at least 35,000 older people across Worcestershire experiencing loneliness, and we want to work together to reduce this, and to reconnect those living in isolation.
“For an increasing number of people, particularly those in later life, loneliness can define their lives and have a substantial impact on their physical and mental health and wellbeing.”
Those experiencing isolation or loneliness should call Reconnections on 01905 740954.
