Scotland: Consultation on "Tackling social isolation and loneliness and building stronger social connections"

[Andy]

In the last Parliamentary term, the Scottish Government welcomed The Equal Opportunities Committee report on Social Isolation which was the first of its kind anywhere in the world. The committee found that social isolation and loneliness was a problem in Scotland, and recommended that the Government developed a national strategy to tackle it. This consultation is an important part of the process.

Social Isolation and loneliness is an issue that can affect anyone at any age or stage of their lives. Feelings of loneliness have been demonstrated to have wide ranging consequences for those effected. and has been shown to lead to depression across all ages, as well as cognitive decline and dementia in older people. There is also the potential for serious physical health implications which have been compared to those of obesity or smoking.

We want a Scotland where individuals and communities are more connected and everyone has the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships regardless of age, status, circumstances or identity. We see the role of communities as vital in achieving this goal, and have already began to empower them to make decisions that help them address their unique priorities. Because communities are so central to tackling this problem, it is important that the people who live in them get to have their say.

https://consult.gov.scot/equality-unit/connected-scotland/

 

[Trish]

As my mother used to say, 'Fine words butter no parsnips'. In other words, this sort of thing only has meaning if translated into meaningful action, which in government terms boils down to money. I hope the Scottish Government follows up the fine words with funding for local organisations that can really make a difference.

 

[MEMarge]

Hasn't Westminster recently appointed an MP for loneliness?

 

[Andy]

Hasn't Westminster recently appointed an MP for loneliness?

A minister for loneliness, a project first started by the late MP Jo Cox, has been announced by Downing Street.

Tracey Crouch said she was proud to take on the "generational challenge" to tackle an issue affecting about nine million UK people, young and old.

The 42-year-old said she would work across political parties in the role.

The Commission on Loneliness was first set up by Ms Cox, who was killed before the EU referendum.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-42708507