loneliness – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Funding boost for organisations bringing people together

TACKLING LONELINESS

Projects supporting people most at risk of social isolation and loneliness have had their funding extended until March 2027.

A total of £1.05 million will help 52 organisations provide group and community activities, warm spaces, and opportunities for people to come together for a meal or other activities, aimed at older people, carers, disabled people and young parents.

This includes the Grampian Hospitals Art Trust providing arts and crafts to patients and their loved ones, Down’s Syndrome Scotland to support their social activities, such as last week’s summer prom for children and families, and the Big Hearts Community Trust in Edinburgh to host gatherings for older people and carers.

Other local beneficiaries of the funding iinclude Pilton Community Health Project, Edinburgh Tool Library, Pilmeny Development Project and Leith’s Living Memories Association.

Marking the end of Loneliness Awareness Week, Equalities Minister Simita Kumar said: “Loneliness can affect anyone and the cost-of-living crisis has increased isolation for many, including young people, carers and disabled people. Our funding will allow organisations to extend their projects, keeping people connected during this challenging time.

“I thank the organisations who are providing this vital support to people across Scotland, ensuring that people feel warmth and connection in their communities and can access important support networks.”

Launched in August 2023, funding through the Social Isolation and Loneliness Fund will culminate in March 2027 with over £3.8 million having been invested and at least 20,000 people supported.

Grampian Hospitals Art Trust Art and social activities for people in NHS settings

Grampian Society for the Blind, operating as North East Sensory Services (NESS) Social groups and activities for people with a visual impairment

Mearns & Coastal Healthy Living Network Health, wellbeing and social activities for older people

Cowal Elderly Befrienders SCIO Befriending and social activities for older people, people with dementia

Helensburgh Lunch Club Lunch club for older people

North Argyll Carers Centre Social activities indoors/outdoors for unpaid carers (young and older). Intergenerational elements

Parent to Parent Ltd Peer social support groups for parents

Cumnock Juniors Community Enterprise Walking football for older people

Contact Point in East Dunbartonshire SCIO Social club and café for older people, disabled people and those with long term health conditions

Carers Link East Dunbartonshire Café and social outings for carers

Home-Start East Lothian Volunteer befriending for isolated families

Our Community Kitchen Lunches and activities for older people, disabled people and those with mental health conditions

Stepping Out Range of indoor and outdoor activities for people with mental health conditions

Big Hearts Community Trust Social gatherings and activities for older people and carers. Volunteering.

Edinburgh Tool Library Group build project and volunteering for people from the LGBT+ community

Pilmeny Development Project Creative arts, health and wellbeing activities and refreshments for older people

Pilton Community Health Project Social indoor and outdoor activities for men and women

Care for Carers Small group breaks for unpaid carers

The Living Memory Association Range of group activities for health and wellbeing for older people

Denny Community Support Group Range of indoor and outdoor social and group activities for older, younger, families, recovery.

Freedom Of Mind Community Choir Choir singing

Abbey Church of Dunfermline Creative arts for people with dementia

Fife Society for the Blind aka Seescape Befriending, group sessions and drop ins for people with a visual impairment

The Linda Tremble Foundation (trading as SupportED) 1:1 befriending and support groups for people with eating disorders

Easthall Residents Association Men, women and single mothers (3 groups) – a range of indoor and outdoor activities

Gilded Lily Inspiring Enterprise CIC Craft and chat for women (BAME, refugee, asylum)

Maryhill Integration Network Choir for women of all backgrounds

The Urban Roots Initiative Lunch club for older people

The Well Multi-Cultural Resource Centre 1:1 support, toddler parent groups, ESOL, lunches and activities for women and children

Woodlands Community Development Trust Community café, activities, information, cooking for all age groups

Glasgow Association for Mental Health Wellbeing and social activities for young people aged 16-25 with mental health conditions

Glasgow Disability Alliance Digital connections for disabled people

Home-Start Glasgow South Community club for parents/carers with young families

British Deaf Association Providing information and support to the deaf community, online and in person

Project Ability Creative arts for disabled people

Down’s Syndrome Scotland Social face to face activities for people with Downs Syndrome

The National Autistic Society Online and face to face group sessions for people with autism

ENABLE Scotland Community based (indoor and outdoor) activities for people with a learning disability

Good Morning Project Limited (known as Good Morning Service) Telephone befriending for older people

Caithness Voluntary Group Befriending; mens group for older, disabled adults

Inverness Foodstuff Social lunches for homeless and other vulnerable people

Merkinch Partnership Ltd Developing a working group with lived experience to support others affected by SIAL

Scottish Men’s Sheds Association Develop and support Mens Sheds across the Highlands and Islands

Inverkip Community Initiative Community resource for a range of groups; access to chat, tea/coffee, internet, jobs information and signposting

Tagsa Uibhist Training, community walks and community social events for older people affected by dementia.

Cunninghame MS Drop-In Centre Social lunches, activities and trips for people with MS

Beith Community Development Trust Telephone befriending and social get togethers for older people

Lanarkshire Association for Mental Health (LAMH) Wellbeing activity classes for people with mental health conditions and older people, disabled people.

Sanday Afternoon Club Community meals, activities and outings for older people

Letham4All SCIO Community groups and activities for older people, parents with young children, young people

Lochside Neighbourhood Group Social meals and activities/info for older people with low income

Forth Community Resource Centre Steering Group Activity cafés for older people, living on own, carers.

Her Royal Highness supports The Eric Liddell Community at it’s Dinner for Dementia

On Tuesday, 20 January 2026, The Eric Liddell Community, the Edinburgh-based care charity founded in memory of sporting legend Eric Liddell, was honoured to welcome its Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, to its annual Dinner for Dementia.

Hosted at The Caledonian Edinburgh, the evening provided an opportunity for meaningful conversation around the growing need for community based dementia care and highlighted the great work that The Eric Liddell Community plays in supporting individuals and families across Edinburgh.

The Eric Liddell Community is widely recognised for its vital dementia care services, offering practical day support, social programmes and much needed respite that help enhance wellbeing and reduce isolation.

Its community hub in Morningside now welcomes more than 7,000 people each month, serving as a crucial lifeline for families navigating the emotional and physical and financial pressures of long term caring responsibilities.

The evening featured an expert keynote speech from Dr Claire Durrant, Race Against Dementia Dyson Fellow, Emerging Leader at the UK Dementia Research Institute and Senior Lecturer at the Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research, the University of Edinburgh.

Dr Durrant provided expert insight into current global dementia research and emphasised the critical importance of pairing scientific innovation with compassionate, community led care.

Dr Claire Durrant, expert keynote speaker at the event, highlighted the importance of community-led care: “Dementia is one of the greatest health and social challenges of our time and it is vital that scientific research and community based support work hand in hand.

“Events like the Dinner for Dementia create an important space for people to share experiences and raise awareness of the impact of dementia. I was delighted to be part of an evening that brings the community together.”

The Eric Liddell Community’s Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, had the opportunity to meet the charity’s dedicated staff, volunteers, carers, and those living with dementia who benefit so greatly from the charity’s services during her visit in April 2025.

The charity demonstrates the importance of having a welcoming place within the community, where one is greeted with kindness, a friendly smile, and genuine warmth, and how this can make an immeasurable difference to the lives of those who visit The Eric Liddell Community. Places like this are at the heart of our communities.

John MacMillan MBE, CEO of The Eric Liddell Community, added: “We were deeply honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness to this year’s Dinner for Dementia. Her presence reinforced not only the significance of our work but the urgency of the growing dementia challenge in Scotland.

“The evening highlighted the power of collaboration and the vital difference that community led support can make to thousands of families every year.

“We were also delighted to have Dr Durrant speaking at the event. Dr Durrant’s input provided a unique insight into her world renowned research linked to finding a cure for dementia.”

ONS Data Reveals Anxiety Peaks for 30–49s as New Year Starts

As we enter the New Year reflecting on their well-being and setting intentions for the months ahead, a new analysis highlights a group starting the year under pressure:

36% of adults aged 30–49 reported high anxiety, highlighting a group entering the New Year under significant pressure.
Women report higher anxiety levels than men, suggesting persistent gender differences in wellbeing as 2026 begins.
Expert commentary and practical tips from Neil Gandecha, Manager of Foxholes Care Home, on staying connected and learning together, habits that can support wellbeing beyond the festive season and into the New Year.

As the New Year begins, data suggests many adults are starting 2026 feeling anxious rather than refreshed.

Experts at Foxholes Care Home analysed the latest data from the Office for National Statistics, which asked respondents to rate their anxiety, life satisfaction, and sense of purpose on a scale of 0 to 10, with 10 being the highest.

Question: Overall, how anxious did you feel yesterday? Score 6 to 10 out of 10 (high levels of anxiety)

Anxiety levels were highest among adults aged 30 to 49, with 36% of respondents scoring 6 to 10.

16- to 29-year-olds came in close second, with 35%, followed by those aged 70 and over with 28%.

However, people aged between 50 and 69 reported the lowest levels of anxiety at just 26%, suggesting that in middle age, we feel less worried.

Meanwhile, women consistently reported slightly higher anxiety than men.

Question: Overall, how anxious did you feel yesterday? Score 6 to 10 out of 10 (high levels of anxiety)

Female 34

Male 29

The survey also found that the sense that life is worthwhile increases with age, rising from an average score of 6.9 out of 10 among younger adults to 7.9 out of 10 among those aged 70 and over.

Overall, to what extent do you feel that the things you do in your life are worthwhile?

Life satisfaction was lowest among adults aged between 30 and 49, and highest among adults aged 70 and over.

Overall, how satisfied are you with your life nowadays?

The survey also found that women reported slightly higher scores for how worthwhile they find the things they do in life.

Overall, to what extent do you feel that the things you do in your life are worthwhile?

This generational pattern may reflect differences in social connections, life experience, or coping strategies across age groups and genders.

Tips for Staying Connected in the New Year

As the festive season ends and routines return, many people may feel the effects of isolation or disconnection.

Neil Gandecha from Foxholes Care Home explains: “I see every day just how important it is to feel part of a community, especially during times when loneliness can intensify.

“Even small interactions, digital or in person, can make a big difference.”

Technology can be a powerful tool to maintain connection, support emotional well-being, and carry those habits into the New Year. Simple digital interactions such as video calls, group chats, or shared photos help people feel seen, supported, and part of something bigger.

Younger family members can often teach older relatives new apps or devices, strengthening bonds across generations. And traditional gestures, like a handwritten card or knocking on a neighbour’s door, remain just as impactful.

Practical Ways to Stay Connected

Video Calls -Use Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, or Teams to schedule weekly or special holiday catch-ups. Even a 10-minute chat counts.

Messaging and Group Chats -Send memes, voice notes, photos, or updates via WhatsApp, Messenger, Discord, or Snapchat. Group chats keep friends and family involved and engaged.

Share Photos and Memories -Use Google Photos, iCloud, or social media stories to exchange holiday moments. Old photos can spark nostalgia and conversation.

Watch or Play Together Online -Platforms like Netflix Party, Disney+ Group Watch, Twitch streams, or online games let friends and family enjoy activities together even when apart.

Send Digital Greetings -E-cards, personalised emails, or video messages add a personal touch when in-person visits aren’t possible.

Voice Notes and Texts – A short voice message often feels more personal than a text, helping loved ones feel heard and valued.

Collaborate on Digital Projects -Create shared playlists, digital scrapbooks, or TikTok trends for an interactive, fun connection.

Learn New Tech Together -Older adults can benefit from tutorials with younger family members, fostering skills and bonding.

Balance Digital and Personal Touches -Pair online interaction with handwritten cards, small gifts, or thoughtful messages to make connections warmer and more meaningful.

Neil concludes, “Technology can support togetherness, even when families aren’t physically close.

“But pairing digital touchpoints with traditional gestures like a handwritten card creates a stronger emotional impact as we enter the New Year.”

Survey data: Office for National Statistics, October 2025

Don’t Dine Alone: Strachan House Care Home opens it’s doors to lonely older people on Christmas Day

Strachan House Care home opened its doors to a number of people from the community to help tackle loneliness. They invited anyone who would usually dine alone to join them on Christmas day for fun, festivities and food.

Diners were treated to a tasty Christmas lunch in the home’s dining room. Guests had a chance to engage with residents, staff and visitors while enjoying their food, they even had a visit from the big man himself. The guests came from all over Edinburgh to enjoy the day with others and banish loneliness at Christmas time.

The home’s Head Chef produced a range of dishes to cover varied individual dietary needs and preferences, so diners were able to eat to their fill as they were served a beautiful Christmas Dinner that consisted of Turkey and all the trimmings.

The ‘Don’t Dine Alone’ initiative was launched by care provider Barchester Healthcare as a way to reach out to isolated or vulnerable members of their local communities.

Barchester Healthcare is also behind Barchester’s Charitable Foundation, which is a registered charity that gives grants to older people and other adults with a disability to help combat loneliness and enable people to be active and engaged in the communities where the Barchester care homes operate.

Frances Fisher General Manager at Strachan House who visited the service said: “The day was a great success. It was a great effort from my team.

“They are always keen to do more to help those who feel lonely or cut off from the rest of the community”.

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals.

Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

PCHP Winter Warmer

MONDAY 29 DECEMBER from 11am – 2pm

Seasons Greetings from all of us here at #PCHP.

Don’t forget we’ll be opening our doors on the 29th from 11am -2pm for our annual #WinterWarmer.

Join us as we serve up a warm bowl of soup and some good conversation.

We hope to see you then.

Fort Kinnaird joins forces with local charities to support people who feel lonely at Christmas

New research has revealed one in two people (56 per cent) living in Edinburgh have experienced feelings of loneliness at Christmas, with almost one in five (18 per cent) saying they expect to feel lonelier this year than they did last Christmas.

The research, conducted by Fort Kinnaird in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, also found that more than half (53 per cent) of people in Edinburgh said they wouldn’t know where to turn for help when struggling with loneliness or isolation.

Worryingly, almost half (49 per cent) also said they don’t feel comfortable confiding in someone they trust about how they feel – a tendency that increases with age.

In response, Fort Kinnaird has teamed up with Edinburgh-based charities Cyrenians and Edinburgh Young Carers to help raise awareness of the support they can provide for vulnerable groups experiencing feelings of loneliness, including people who are homeless and young carers.

Cyrenians works to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness, including social isolation, by offering prevention, early-intervention and supported-housing services.

Meanwhile, Edinburgh Young Carers provides respite and support to young people who care for somebody at home. They aim to improve the lives and wellbeing of young carers by raising awareness, offering emotional and practical support and by giving each young person the opportunity to take a break from their caring role which can be very isolating.

Fort Kinnaird will be donating advertising space to both of the local charities, helping to signpost the vital support for those who need it most, while also encouraging donations. Adverts promoting the charities will feature across its digital screens, on posters and bathroom mirror vinyls, as well as on social media and the centre’s website during the festive period.

Later this month, the centre will also bring back its popular Letters of Hope initiative for the second year, where shoppers are encouraged to share messages of support that will once again be distributed by Cyrenians to vulnerable members of the community, helping to combat social isolation over the festive period.

Shoppers will also be able to make a voluntary donation to Cyrenians through a donation point located next to the ‘Letters of Hope’ Mailbox.

To support young people experiencing loneliness, the centre will also be hosting digital workshops run by animation and film makers D Fie Foe, in partnership with Edinburgh Young Carers. The workshops will aim to provide young people with useful skills in digital filmmaking, whilst using creativity as a platform to connect and collaborate with others.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “The festive period is a truly special time for us at Fort Kinnaird, bringing people from across the community together to enjoy our Christmas markets and festive activities, but sadly we know that it can be a lonelier time for some.

“Having worked closely with Cyrenians over the past year, we’re acutely aware of the impact that social isolation and loneliness can have and wanted to build on our partnership to increase our support for those in need this Christmas.

“We’re proud to be partnering Cyrenians and Edinburgh Young Carers to raise awareness of the local support available, whilst creating opportunities for meaningful moments of connection this Christmas.

“We look forward to seeing the messages of festive joy shared by our visitors through Letters of Hope, whilst raising valuable donations for Cyrenians.”

Alexa Knight, Director of Policy and Influence for the Mental Health Foundation, said: “We can all feel lonely at times, but when loneliness lasts for a long period, it can have a profound impact on our mental health.

“At Christmas, this can feel even harder because the portrayal of the season as full of joy and togetherness can deepen feelings of isolation if we are lonely.

“Working with Fort Kinnaird allows us to shine a light on an issue that is often hidden, encourage open conversations, and connect people with the support and understanding they need this Christmas and beyond.

“It’s important to note that loneliness isn’t something individuals should have to fix alone; we all have a role to play. Taking time to check in with people around us, offering a listening ear, or creating spaces where others feel welcome can make a real difference.”

The research also revealed that whilst loneliness is often associated with older generations, younger people are increasingly struggling too, with more than a third (34 per cent) of 18–24-year-olds anticipating greater feelings of loneliness this year.

Social media also emerged as a key influence, with almost a quarter (24 per cent) of people saying that online platforms make them feel more alone at Christmas, whilst financial pressures (43 per cent), being physically distant from family and friends (29 per cent) and the recent loss of a loved one (27 per cent) and were the key reasons behind feelings of disconnection.

Margaret Murphy, Chief Executive at Edinburgh Young Carers, said: “Edinburgh Young Carers are delighted to be working with Fort Kinnaird on this campaign in the run up to the festive period.

“Young carers take on incredible responsibilities for their loved ones throughout the year, and Christmas can often be an isolating and difficult time.

We hope this campaign will highlight the support that young car”ers and young adult carers have a right to access – including a break from caring and a chance to have fun and spend time with friends.”

Throughout the festive period, Fort Kinnaird will also be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.

To find out more visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/christmas.

Vintage Vibes: One week to go to transform someone’s Christmas!

Plus, how to support us without it costing a penny!

Thank you so much! We are so humbled and grateful to everyone who has got involved in our 2025 campaign to send Christmas cards to the isolated older people in our community.

If you haven’t yet but still want to make a difference, sign up today and pop your card in the post to us by Thursday 4th December or drop off in person to Heart of Newhaven by Monday 8th December.

You will receive an individual profile of a local older person in our community, and all you need to do is write them a Christmas card to transform their Christmas

… And if you’ve sent a card, scroll down to find a super easy way to support Vintage Vibes without it costing you a penny!

YES, I’d LOVE to send a card!

We have profiles for older people across every part of Edinburgh…

From DAVID who loves computer games, to SHEILA who dances around the living room to Glastonbury, from ROBIN the film buff to FAY the foodie.

These Christmas cards make a huge difference to people who are often or always alone, and often feel invisible during the festive period.

The messages don’t need to be long, a simple Christmas joke and a kind word will do, it’s the act of letting someone know they matter that makes all the difference.

And it’s great to get the kids involved in too!

Check out these amazing cards from the Beavers, Scouts & Young Leaders at 21st Craigalmond Scouts in South Queensferry!

I can’t wait, sign me up!

*Although there is a suggested donation to help us tackle isolation all year-round, anyone can also get involved without donating by using the code NODONATE.

Already sent a card? Here’s a super easy (and free!) way to tackle local loneliness…

Will you be shopping online this Christmas?

We’re heading towards that magical but expensive time of year again – but there is a super easy way to do a little bit of good with every purchase.

With any online shopping you need to do as we head towards Black Friday and Christmas, you could raise vital funds for Vintage Vibes with just one click.

Vintage Vibes have just registered with EasyFundraising, which means that when anyone shops with 8,000+ online stores (including supermarkets), Vintage Vibes can receive a small free donation, courtesy of who you shop with – without it costing you anything.

SIMPLE – EASY – IMPACTFUL

It’s super simple, you just sign up (at no cost to you) and then download the ‘donation reminder’ and it will pop up when you’re on an eligible website. All you do is click ‘click to get donation’ and the business will give a little donation to Vintage Vibes. Yay!

It’s predicted that more than £3m will be raised this way for charities across the UK during the coming months and we’d love to be able to increase our reach in Edinburgh in 2026, so every penny raised helps us support more local isolated older people

Find out more about EasyFundraising

As a tiny local charity, ever single share helps!

Be the reason someone smiles this Christmas – and help us spread the word about our work however you can.

You can find links to all our social media channels below, filled with posts and videos that can be shared with friends, family and colleagues!

Thank you so much – we are forever grateful.

Georgia, Andrew, Alison, Cara and Emma

VINTAGE VIBES xxx

Strachan House launches initiative to help combat loneliness at Christmas

DON’T DINE ALONE ON CHRISTMAS DAY

Local care home Strachan House in Blackhall is opening its doors to members of the community in a bid to help tackle loneliness this Christmas.

Older community members, who might usually eat alone, are invited to join staff and residents at the home on Christmas Day from 12.30 pm onwards for a free three course meal and a good old natter.

Diners will be treated to a tasty Christmas lunch in the home’s dining room. Guests will have a chance to mingle and get into the festive spirit with music and tales of Christmas’s gone by as well as taking part in the festive cheer throughout the day.

The ‘Don’t Dine Alone’ initiative was launched by Barchester Healthcare as a way to reach out to isolated or vulnerable members of the local community.

The company has its own Charitable Foundation, a registered charity that gives grants to older people and other adults with a disability or mental health problem to help combat loneliness and enable people to connect with their local communities.

The home’s talented Head Chef Paul Dow will be creating an array of delicious dishes all cooked from scratch using fresh produce for diners to enjoy.

Fran Fisher, General Manager at Strachan House said: “Loneliness and isolation can have a huge impact on people, especially older members of the community.

“We want all our neighbours to know that they are welcome to come and dine with us here at Strachan House,, we very much hope that anyone feeling lonely will join us for a hot meal on Christmas day”.

Strachan House care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care from respite breaks to long term stays.

A Triumph for Muirhouse!

‘Come Dine With Us’ initiative recognised for tackling loneliness and fostering community wellbeing

MUIRHOUSE HOUSING Association is celebrating a magnificent triumph in a prestigious set of national awards.

The Association excelled in the Tenant Participation Service (TPAS) Scotland National Good Practice Awards scoring a win in the keenly-contested category for Community Involvement – tenant/community group.

It was a powerful endorsement of Muirhouse’s commitment to placing its community at the heart of everything it does as a housing provider.

The National Good Practice Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in tenant participation by individual tenants, tenant groups and social landlords.

The category won by Muirhouse “recognises and celebrates the achievements of a tenant or community-led group or project that has supported other individuals or groups within their community and made a positive impact.”

Muirhouse’s triumph centred on its innovative and inclusive “Come Dine With Us” initiative – a recurring event offering a free meal and companionship to local residents aimed at tackling isolation and loneliness

Launched in 2022, it instantly resonated with the community and attracts between 15 and 30 people to the weekly get-together in winter with it running fortnightly in the summer.

It has chalked up some impressive outcomes with evaluation showing an increase in the age groups attending ranging from 26-85 plus an impressive 140% increase in how satisfied those attending are with their lives. An increase of 83% was recorded from those attending who felt the things they do in life are “worthwhile”.

Muirhouse Chief Executive Susan Bell, added: “Ensuring we do our bit to tackle loneliness and isolation in our community – especially among those who are single – remains an important part of our work.

“In the face of the cost-of-living challenges, we as a housing association are ideally placed to make a difference and Come Dine With Us tackles this very issue. We remain very grateful for the funding received which helps to support this important initiative.”

“This project provides the opportunity to inspire and empower individuals to foster better health, connect with others in the community and feel valued.

“We are thrilled to receive this award, which recognises the dedication and teamwork behind our efforts to support the community.”

Mental Health Foundation: Loneliness

Loneliness, especially long-term loneliness, increases the risk of mental health challenges like anxiety, depression and stress.

On the flip side, regular social interactions can help us feel less isolated and protect our mental health.

Loneliness can affect anyone. Here are some ways that can help you cope.

Visit our website for more tips: https://bit.ly/4kcDalm

#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

#ThisIsMyCommunity