Norfolk Counsellor says 'small talk' at Christmas can help tackle loneliness
270,000 of over 65 year-olds in England typically go a week without speaking to a loved one, according to Age UK.
A private counsellor in South Norfolk says making small talk with a stranger over the festive period can go a long way towards helping somebody who's suffering from loneliness.
One million older people in the UK believe they are more isolated at Christmas than at any other time of year, according to new research from Age UK.
"You don't have to plan a big Christmas meal with somebody for it to be special and impactful"
Ruth Noble lives in Diss, she says we can all take small steps to mitigate feelings of isolation:
"Get in touch with somebody that you might want to spend Christmas with. Are there people who can gather around you? If not, is there something the community that's happening?
"I know that for me there's a couple of places close by that are open, for those who don't have somebody to be with at Christmas".
"Even if it's a video call or popping round for a cup of tea, that can go a long way. You don't have to plan a big Christmas meal with somebody for it to be special and impactful".
Links to support:
Age UK:
080\0 678 1602
Website- https://www.ageuk.org.uk
Befriending Networks
Website- befriending.co.uk
Samaritans
11\6 123 (freephone)
Website- samaritans.org