According to studies, feeling lonely has a severe effect on people's health, with proven links to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline and dementia. The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns have escalated loneliness and social isolation, with one in 20 people aged 16 and over saying they felt lonely between April and May 2020. This figure increased to one in 14 in April 2021.

The Government launched new plans to tackle loneliness in April 2020 and is focusing its work around reducing stigma, driving a lasting shift and improving the evidence base on loneliness. In April 2020, the Chancellor announced a £750 million package of support for community-based organisation in England that are working on interventions to tackle loneliness.

This timely event will examine how local government, healthcare and voluntary sector organisations are working together to build a sense of community and connectedness to combat social isolation and loneliness.

Hear from a wide range of organisations who are working together to build communities and support people both in rural and urban communities. Discover which interventions are the most effective and efficient at building social connections across different demographics and effective ways for organisations to work together to make a difference.