Connected communities: a strategy for tackling loneliness and social isolation and building stronger social connections

Author(s)

WALES. Welsh Government

Publisher(s):

Welsh Government

Publication year:

2020

The Welsh Governnment's first strategy for tackling loneliness and social isolation. It defines what is meant by loneliness and social isolation, describes the key priorities in tackling these issues and sets out the Government's approach for implementing the strategy. The strategy focuses on approaches that reduce the risk of, or prevent, loneliness and social isolation or that intervene early, before these become more entrenched. The strategy looks at the role Government can play and also how it can support local authorities, wider public services, the third sector and also the private sector. It also describes the important role that individuals can play in supporting each other in communities. The strategy has four priority areas: increasing opportunities for people to connect; improving the community infrastructure to support people to come together, including the areas of planning, housing and transport; cohesive and supportive communities; and build awareness and promote positive attitudes, which sets out how the Welsh Government will raise the profile of loneliness and social isolation and reduce stigma. Key commitments are listed under each priority area. The strategy will be supported by funding over three years to support community-based organisations to deliver and test innovative approaches to tackling loneliness and social isolation. (Edited publisher abstract)