Loneliness and social isolation
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Loneliness can affect anyone and is completely normal. It is a subjective, unwelcome feeling of lack or loss of companionship. Loneliness can be linked to social isolation. Loneliness is an emotional experience, while isolation is a lack of social contact.
6.8% of adults in Medway were recorded as feeling lonely often or always during 2022 to 2023, and 2023 to 2024. This is similar compared to England (7%).
In Medway loneliness is estimated to be more likely experienced by people aged 85 or over, economically inactive or renting their home.
In 2023 to 2024, 47.4% of adult social care users aged 18 and over in Medway had as much social contact as they would like. This is similar compared to England (45.6%).
Only 28.2% of adult carers aged 18 and over in Medway in 2023 to 2024 had as much social contact as they would like. This is similar compared to England (30%).
What's available in Medway?
View our loneliness and isolation hub
Hello, these pages on the Medway Council website are dedicated to helping you take small steps to feel more connected. They include details of many options, including:
Talking Tables
Free to attend and held in cafes and centres across Medway. Take a seat and stay for 5 minutes or longer if you’re enjoying chatting.
Befriending services
A formal social arrangement, where you're matched with a befriender who can contact you by phone or in person.
Joy
Joy connects people to local services. Find the support, activities and community right for you.
Everyday Active Kent
Are you ready to start moving more in your everyday life? Low cost or free group activities in your community, for all abilities.