Loneliness - support for care experienced young people

What is loneliness?

Many people feel lonely at some point in their life. Social isolation can bring about negative feelings like loneliness. This can be from lack of communication, friendship or human connection with other people. It might feel like you don’t have any one to talk to, share things or meet up with. If you do not tackle loneliness, it can lead to other health issues, both mentally and physically.

Here is a video on loneliness and what to do if you feel lonely:

What can I do if I’m feeling lonely?

Pick up the phone

It helps to talk, there are people in your life who want to listen to you. Try calling a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, they might be feeling lonely too.

Join local community groups

It’s good to meet up with people who have similar interests. Try searching for things you like doing (crafts, walking, animals) there is bound to be a local group who likes doing the same.

Go out for a walk in a public place like a park

Fresh air and a fresh perspective can help with you are feeling low. Try to get a change of scenery when you are feeling lonely.

Visit your local coffee shop

We know a change of scenery is good, it’s also good to be around other people. If you’re worried about going alone, bring a book or table. You may meet people and get chatting.

Invite a friend around for tea

Cooking can keep you busy in the evening – it doesn’t need to be anything fancy but there is something satisfying about cooking for someone else. Maybe invite an old friend, work friend or neighbour.

Start a new hobby

It’s great to follow your interests and passions. Have a google for things in your area that might interest you. It’s the taking part that counts, you don’t need to do things perfectly! Lots of places have free trials for your first session.

Teach a skill

A good way to connect to others is to teach them things. Maybe you can draw really well, maybe you just love talking to people – you could volunteer with a charity to teach people new skills while enjoying their company.

Use technology to reach out to people

It’s a good idea to maintain contact over things like Zoom or Discord if you have less mobility or your friends and family live far away. Plan out some time with others to make calls so you can speak with the regularly.

Meet other care experienced young people

It helps to meet people who have had similar experiences to you and may understand what you are feeling. Getting out and meeting people of a similar age is also good. You could join the Voice and Influence Panel (VIP) and meet other care experienced young people, talk about how you are feeling and what the Council can do to support you all.

Find out more at the Voice and Influence Panel. You can also email cwolfe@swindon.gov.uk or call 07929 741819 or contact your Pathway Advisor for more information.

Look into other people/ celebrities who are like you

It may feel like you alone in feeling lonely but many people feel that way, especially those who are care experienced. Care Experience and Culture shares collections of work from all care-experienced people including programmes, media, people, data and books.

Who can help me?

There are lots of people out there who will listen to you, you just need to reach out.

You can talk to:

  • your PA who can help you access or find groups that may be suitable for you
  • your GP who can help you find ways to manage loneliness and signpost you to support groups
  • Children Looked After Health Team who are a team of Specialist Nurses based at the Lyndhurst Centre Swindon with experience of working with all age groups around emotional health. If you want help to access a service or assess what would suit your needs contact us on 01793 464334.

What websites will give me more information?

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