Loneliness and Isolation
The Chair to present
Minutes:
The Chair opened a discussion about the impact of loneliness and isolation upon the mental and physical health of individuals. Specific reference was made to:-
· the incidence of early deaths amongst sufferers of loneliness and isolation;
· community support projects/schemes (eg: Men-in-Sheds; Home First);
· the suggestion of a survey being undertaken of persons within the Rotherham Borough area who suffer loneliness and isolation;
· identifying the extent of service provision and any gaps in such provision – as well as the possible reluctance of lonely and isolated people to gain access to appropriate advice and assistance.
The Health and Wellbeing Board noted the intention to establish a Working Group to examine this issue further. A number of members of the Board expressed a willingness to contribute to this Working Group. The Chair asked for nominations to be sent by e-mail to kate.green@rotherham.gov.uk