#TakeTheTime - Paramedic "repeatedly" called out to lonely patients

This week we have launched our #TakeTheTime campaign as we investigate the epidemic of loneliness.

Today we're hearing from a paramedic about the impact isolation has on the health service.

Kris McLean says he is called out on emergency calls to deal with patients who are lonely rather than ill numerous times a week.

You can help people suffering from loneliness by signing up to become a befriender. It involves donating time to support someone in need.

We're working with charity Befriending Networks to help you do it and you can sign up here.