Loneliness costs lives. It is linked to a range of chronic conditions, including high blood pressure and depression, and more than doubles the risk of developing dementia.

On average, 10% of the population aged over 65 is chronically lonely. Nor is it just an issue for elderly people – research shows that up to half of younger people are lonely too.

St Andrew’s Hospice Care @ Home and Community Palliative Care are working across Lanarkshire to beat loneliness, with the help of volunteer befrienders who do a brilliant job by spending time with people who are lonely and isolated due to life-limiting illness.

Margot, a St Andrew’s Hospice befriender told us: “I really feel that I am making a difference to someone’s quality of life, when I see them regain lost confidence or enjoy having a listening ear to recall memories of times past. Carers also benefit from some respite time… Befriending is a most worthwhile and rewarding experience.”

Can you regularly lend a couple of hours of your time to support people with life-limiting illness in your community? If so, please contact AnneMarie Toland or Lorraine MacAlpine on 01236 776951 for more information.