A few years ago I made the significant decision to move a couple of hundred miles to a place where I had no connections.

I was fortunate that I moved to one of the friendliest places around, but my lack of connections, friends and support structures made me realise just how debilitating loneliness can be, it brought it to a very sharp focus.

From my point of view, I simply got off my back side and met people, went to events and made sure that I kept myself busy. Not everyone can do that.

I was introduced to Together Co and the wonderful work they do to help combat loneliness and improve social health and wellbeing. I became a volunteer and subsequently a trustee. I love every minute of my time with Together Co and it gives me so much joy to help.

More people than ever before are lonely or socially isolated. You can change that.

Loneliness and social isolation are deadly. A lack of social connections is as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day (Holt-Lunstad, 2015). Together Co create life-changing and life-saving connections – but we can only do so with your support.

Towards the end of September, I along with a small group, are cycling from London to Paris. I have a lot of work to do to get myself a bitter fitter than I am at the moment to hopefully enjoy rather than endure this. Any support and donations will be hugely appreciated.