8.3M UK adults say they feel more lonely between Christmas & New Year

New research from the terminal illness charity, Marie Curie, has found that over 8 million UK adults (16%) feel more lonely between Christmas and New Year compared to any other time of year, with the figure rising to 28% of people who have been widowed and 32% of those separated or divorced.¹

When asked to select their three main reasons, seventy per cent (70%) of UK adults think missing a loved one who has died makes people feel most lonely during this period, and 65% think living a long way from family was a big factor in loneliness.

Over one third (39%) of the people surveyed said they thought volunteering for a charity would help them feel less lonely. This is supported by Marie Curie’s findings that 83% of people that volunteered to collect donations for the charity this Christmas said they felt more engaged with their local community. ²

Debbie Coulson, Head of Volunteering at Marie Curie said: “As a charity that supports people affected by terminal illnesses we know how lonely people can feel at this time of year, particularly if they have been bereaved or are caring for a loved one who is ill.

“But there are some really positive actions people can take to help combat this, including volunteering. Our volunteers tell us they feel more connected to their communities and volunteering can create new social circles and friendships.”

Research published earlier this year³ showed that for those who become widowed, starting to volunteer two+ hours per week was related to reduced loneliness.

Debbie added: “If you’re affected by loneliness then volunteering in 2019 is a positive step you can take. Right now, we’re appealing for people to sign up to volunteer for our Great Daffodil Appeal. You only need to commit two hours to give out our daffodil pins in return for donations, so it’s an easy way to try volunteering if you’ve never done it before.

“For those who are feeling overwhelmed and isolated, and don’t know where to turn, our Marie Curie Support Line will be open throughout the festive period, providing confidential emotional support about any aspect of terminal illness, as well as offering help with bereavement.”

For more information on volunteering for Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/collect or call 0800 304 7025.