Comment on Mature Times research into Loneliness

In response to Mature Times research into Loneliness Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director at Age UK, said:

'Living in isolation and loneliness is a stark reality for many older people. The results of the survey highlight the growing issue of loneliness and the pressures families face with increasingly busy lives. However, friends and family play a crucial role in helping people in later life stay connected and involved with their community and we would encourage everyone to keep in regular contact with older friends and family, especially those who may be isolated or unable to leave their home due to mobility issues or illness.

'Age UK provides telephone befriending schemes nationally and through some local Age UKs and Age Concerns, which involve regular weekly phone calls between trained and supported volunteers and older people. Many Age UKs and Age Concerns across the country also provide services that can help older people to beat loneliness, including befriending schemes, day centres, lunch clubs and digital training to enable isolated older people to contact others and pursue hobbies. For more information on social activities and support available in your area, call the information line on 0800 00 99 66.'

- ENDS -

Ref: AH/MM

Notes to Editors

Age UK

For media enquiries relating to Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland please contact the appropriate national office: Age Scotland on 0131 668 8055, Age Cymru on 029 2043 1562 and Age NI on 028 9024 5729.

Age UK is the new force combining Age Concern and Help the Aged, dedicated to improving later life.

We provide free information, advice and support to over five million people; commercial products and services to over one million customers; and research and campaign on the issues that matter to people in later life. Our work focuses on five key areas: money matters, health and well being, home and care, work and training and leisure and lifestyle. We work with our national partners, Age Scotland, Age Cymru and Age NI (together the Age UK Family), our local Age UK partners in England and local Age Concerns. We also work internationally for people in later life as a member of the DEC and with our sister charity Help Age International.

Age UK is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England (registered charity number 1128267 and company number 6825798). Age Concern England and Help the Aged (both registered charities), and their trading and other associated companies merged on the 1st April 2009. Together they have formed the Age UK Group ("we"). Charitable services are offered through Age UK and commercial products are offered by the Charity's trading companies, which donate their net profits to Age UK (the Charity).

Media contact: Ashley Cox
Tel: 020 8765 7513
Out of hours: 07071 243 243