The Northern Ireland Assembly held a debate today on the importance of establishing a Loneliness Strategy to support people affected by the growing issue of loneliness.

The All Party Group on Loneliness at Stormont has been working for several years to address the impact of loneliness and isolation on people of all ages. A wide range of organisations support this All Party Group including health agencies, charities, community groups, and agencies such as the NI Federation of GPs. Engage with Age has been a long-term supporter of this initiative and is part of the Action Committee.

A lengthy debate was held in the Assembly, and there was universal support for creating a loneliness strategy that will work across all areas of government including housing, education, health and infrastructure.