Did you know that in the UK one million older people say they feel lonelier than ever at Christmas time? Loneliness is a growing problem for older people on our Island, one in six older Islanders (65+) live alone.

Feeling lonely doesn't necessarily mean you have no one nearby. You may be surrounded by friends and family but still feel lonely. Loneliness is unique to every individual. It can have different causes and consequences for each of us.

We know that the effects of loneliness and isolation can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness is associated with depression, sleep problems, hypertension, impaired cognitive health, heightened vascular resistance, psychological stress and mental health problems.

Age UK Isle of Wight's 'Good Neighbour Scheme' utilises the support of vetted volunteers to provide weekly face to face and telephone befriending to older Island residents who find themselves feeling lonely and isolated.

Our befriending service relies on the support of local donations to help to secure it's future. Please help us to ensure that we can continue to be here for those who have no one else to turn to.

100% of all donations raised from the 'No One Should Have No One' campaign stay on the Island, directly supporting the Age UK Isle of Wight befriending service.