Social isolation and loneliness is an issue that can affect anyone at any age or stage of their lives.
Feelings of loneliness have wide-ranging consequences for those affected. and has been shown to lead to depression in people of all ages, as well as cognitive decline and dementia in older people.
There is also the potential for serious physical health implications which have been compared to those of obesity or smoking.
In the last Parliamentary term, the Scottish Government welcomed the Equal Opportunities Committee’s report on Social Isolation – the first of its kind anywhere in the world.
The committee found that social isolation and loneliness was a problem in Scotland, and recommended that the Government develop a national strategy to tackle it.
Now, the Scottish Government is holding a consultation about how to take this forward.
It includes an event in Galashiels on Monday 26th March from 12-2pm at Langlee Community Centre.
You can register to attend the event on the Eventbrite website.