Let's work together and we can crack loneliness

Not because people don’t care, but because by its very nature it’s hidden.

No-one knows for sure how many people there are behind closed doors suffering in silence.

It can happen to anyone at any age, but is more prevalent among older people.

Which is why it’s fantastic to be able to report, as we do today, on the success of a fair to tackle the problem.

The brainchild of Havant MP Alan Mak, it saw representatives from 35 organisations gather at a community centre on Hayling Island.

They included councils, the police, charities, clubs and support groups – all people with an interest in helping people who are lonely.

And what a success it was.

Mr Mak estimates that 1,000 people came through the door to seek advice, company and information.

Whether it was the people who find themselves lonely or family and friends of those who may be vulnerable, it’s great to report on the number of people the event helped.

As Mr Mak says, it reflects the number of people who care deeply about the community they live in.

We can only hope it’s the first of many events of this kind.

Loneliness in society is something that can be forgotten.

Of course, lives are busy and it’s totally understandable that others are not always at the forefront of people’s minds.

But if you have an older person living in your street or flats, why not spare a moment to think of them?

Do you see them out? Could you spare some time to check if they would like to see a friendly face?

Loneliness can be beaten if we all work together.