New research has revealed that 1 in 2 Londoners (51 per cent) experience feelings of loneliness at Christmas, with one in four (25 per cent) saying they expect to feel lonelier this year than they did last Christmas.
The research, conducted by Ealing Broadway in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, also found that 4 in 10 (46 per cent) of those surveyed in London said they wouldn’t know where to turn for help when struggling with loneliness or feelings of isolation. Worryingly, more than a third (38 per cent) said they wouldn’t feel comfortable confiding in someone they trust about how they’re feeling.
Whilst loneliness is often associated with older generations, younger people are increasingly struggling too, with over a third (36 per cent) of 18–24-year-olds in London anticipating greater feelings of loneliness this year.
In response, Ealing Broadway has teamed up with Age UK Ealing and the Young Ealing Foundation to help raise awareness of the support the charities provide to people of all ages experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Age UK Ealing works to support older people across Ealing to live happy, fulfilling and independent lives, helping to ensure older people of all cultures and backgrounds feel valued, connected and actively engaged within the local community.
To support, Ealing Broadway has bought back its popular Merry Mailbox initiative for the second year. Hundreds of Christmas cards have been designed by local children that will once again be distributed by Age UK Ealing to vulnerable members of the community, spreading joy and connection over the festive period.
Running until Wednesday 10th December, the Merry Mailbox is located inside Ealing Central Library, where shoppers can pick up a free card and write a message of joy and support for someone who needs it most in the local community.
Meanwhile, the Young Ealing Foundation partners with local organisations to create a brighter future for children and young people throughout Ealing, providing access to opportunities and support through their network of local members.
Helping to encourage new friendships during the Christmas season, the centre will be hosting a Christmas party at Gutterball for a group of young people supported by the Young Ealing Foundation, including bowling and arcade games.
Andrew Rollings, Centre Director at Ealing Broadway, said: “Christmas is a truly special time that brings people together from across our Ealing community – from visiting Santa’s grotto to enjoying the Christmas markets, but the reality for some is a much lonelier picture.
“As well as raising awareness of the support Age UK Ealing and the Young Ealing Foundation can provide to people experiencing loneliness and social isolation, we’re excited to see our visitors get involved with our Merry Mailbox and, if able, there is the option on our website to donate to these amazing organisations to help continue their important work.”
Alexa Knight, Director of Policy and Influence for the Mental Health Foundation, said: “We can all feel lonely at times, but when loneliness lasts for a long period, it can have a profound impact on our mental health. At Christmas, this can feel even harder because the portrayal of the season as full of joy and togetherness can deepen feelings of isolation if we are lonely.
“Working with Ealing Broadway allows us to shine a light on an issue that is often hidden, encourage open conversations, and connect people with the support and understanding they need this Christmas and beyond. It’s important to note that loneliness isn’t something individuals should have to fix alone; we all have a role to play. Taking time to check in with people around us, offering a listening ear, or creating spaces where others feel welcome can make a real difference.”
The research also revealed that social media was a key influence when it comes to loneliness, with almost a third (28 per cent) of people in London saying that online platforms make them feel more alone at Christmas, whilst financial pressures (46 per cent), being physically distant from family and friends (36 per cent), and the recent loss of a loved one (23 per cent) were the key reasons behind feelings of disconnection.
Reginald Parkinson, Chief Executive of Age UK Ealing said: “Loneliness is an issue that affects many older people in our borough, and we see first-hand the impact it can have. The support from Ealing Broadway and the Merry Mailbox initiative helps us reach those who may be struggling and provides a meaningful reminder that the community cares. These small gestures of kindness play an important role in helping older residents feel connected, valued and supported during the festive period.”
Rahma Hussein, Youth Voice Projects Manager, at the Young Ealing Foundation said:
“It’s really sad to see that people across generations struggle with loneliness and feelings of isolation during the holidays and the lack of confidence they have in confiding with someone they trust. Through this campaign, we hope to bring not only festive cheer, but display our commitment to bringing communities across Ealing together, regardless of their background. We hope that this campaign sparks joy and cheer for all involved and leads to an ongoing commitment to addressing issues of social isolation.”
Throughout the festive period Ealing Broadway will also be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food and special visits from characters in everyone’s favourite Christmas films, including the mischievous Christmas bandits, the Elf and the ‘green mean one’.
To find out more or donate to the charities, visit https://www.ealingbroadwayshopping.co.uk/community/christmas-connection