The Geography of Loneliness

In a world more connected than ever before, a paradox is unfolding: the epidemic of loneliness. 

Despite the prevalence of social media and constant digital interaction, millions of people report feeling isolated and disconnected. This pervasive sense of solitude transcends age, geography, and socioeconomic status, raising urgent questions about the underlying causes and potential solutions. The UK is one of the few countries to develop a comprehensive national strategy to tackle loneliness. 

The Measuring Loneliness in the UK (INTERACT) study seeks to map loneliness at borough and city levels to highlight the scale of the issue and assist decision-makers in finding new ways to support those suffering in silence. This first-of-its-kind study aims to collect data from thousands of individuals aged 16 and over, providing a visual snapshot of social isolation and loneliness across the capital and other parts of the UK.

We invite everyone aged 16 and over to participate in the INTERACT study by completing a brief online survey. Your insights are crucial in helping us understand the extent of loneliness and social isolation across various communities. Whether you are from a school, library, sheltered accommodation, adult education center, care home, or a GP practice in London or anywhere in the UK, your contribution is invaluable.

The survey, available in multiple languages, takes less than ten minutes to complete and includes questions about social interactions, community involvement, employment, age, and education. Participation is anonymous, though you will be asked to provide your postcode to help generate a detailed ‘heat map’ of loneliness in your area. You also have the option to provide your name and contact details for follow-up. By taking part, you will help us create a clearer picture of loneliness and guide the development of targeted support services. Join us in this important effort to address and reduce loneliness in our communities.