Great Winter Get Together to tackle stigma of loneliness in the South West

After two years of uncertainty and social isolation, new research from the Jo Cox Foundation (conducted by ICM Unlimited) suggests people in the South West are less lonely - with 58% having reported ever feeling lonely in the past month, versus the national average of 67%. However the vast majority in the South West (75%) still think there is a stigma around talking about loneliness, rising to a worrying 91% among young people in the UK.

Kicking off on Blue Monday (17 January) and running until 30 January, the Great Winter Get Together is the Jo Cox Foundation’s annual campaign to bring people together and reduce the stigma associated with loneliness - including the discomfort people feel talking about it. Around the UK the charity will be encouraging people to take action ranging from starting the conversation with those closest to them, up to organising community events.

Winter is the loneliest season of the year and this new research shows only a quarter of Brits (26%) feel comfortable telling a friend or relative about feeling lonely. Yet half of Brits (48%) would feel positive if a friend or relative approached them for support with loneliness - suggesting we are much more comfortable being there for a loved one than we are about asking for support ourselves. 

Su Moore, CEO of the Jo Cox Foundation, said:
“Last year, an incredible 3.5 million people across the UK took part in the Great Winter Get Together. At this difficult time of the year, we need to have the courage to talk about loneliness, even if it feels uncomfortable. Our research shows that among young people, the most helpful way to tackle loneliness is the support of friends and family so we want everyone to know there’s no shame in sharing.”

“That’s why from 17-30 January we’re asking people to get involved with the Great Winter Get Together by taking action in their lives. That could look like checking in with a friend who’s going through a big life change, bringing up the topic in your new parents group, organising a walk in your community so people can connect, or simply letting someone you trust know when you’re feeling lonely. Sometimes the ‘smallest’ actions actually make the biggest difference.”

Comedian, TV presenter, and Strictly Come Dancing star Judi Love is among a host of famous faces supporting this campaign to reduce the stigma around loneliness. She said: 
“This past year has shown us that loneliness is something that can affect anyone. Feeling like you have no access to loved ones, when you’re facing challenges and even when you’re accomplishing great achievements - we just sometimes want to share the moment with someone. There will be many occasions during which we have to stand alone and face ourselves, however, never be afraid or ashamed to say you’re feeling a bit lonely.” 

Anyone can take part in the Great Winter Get Together 2022 - by sharing their own experience, reaching out to someone they know who might be lonely, or organising an event to bring people together. To get involved, visit the Great Get Together website today for a toolkit of practical tips, and join the conversation on social media using #NoShameInSharing.