The pandemic has dramatically impacted the way we live our lives. From wearing masks to socially distancing to covid passports - it’s safe to say it has been a whirlwind of emotions.
With these changes, many people have become isolated (as per guidelines) and feel lonelier than ever before.
With the run up to Christmas, Vogue Williams has joined WhatsApp and The Jo Cox Foundation’s ‘Connection Coalition’ as part of the #FaceOfLoneliness campaign, to ignite a conversation with mums about feelings of loneliness and give a message of assurance that they are not alone.
WhatsApp and The Jo Cox Foundation’s ‘Connection Coalition’ study reveals that almost half of Brits expect to go another year without seeing friends and family at Christmas with 18–34-year-olds most likely to feel lonely during this festive period.
Despite feeling alone, a quarter of all Brits say they are embarrassed to admit it and are afraid to reach out to family and friends.
WhatsApp and the Connection Coalition want to smash the stigma around loneliness and encourage people across the UK to reconnect with friends and family this Christmas.
Other celebrities including Nick Grimshaw and Ovie Soko are joining this important campaign to encourage Brits to help tackle loneliness and ask for help and support when they need it through the ‘Loneliness advice Chatbox.’
Vogue Williams supports the campaign saying: “Even during the joyful times when everything looks so perfect on the outside, loneliness can be at its peak on the inside. This Christmas, people need to be reminded that they are not alone and that there are others who are feeling the exact same way. There is no shame in sharing this.”
Those experiencing loneliness, or worried about others who appear to be struggling can simply WhatsApp “Hi” to 07902922908 to use the chatbot and access helpful advice and resources from organisations including the Marmalade Trust, Jo Cox Foundation, Age UK, The Mix and The British Red Cross and #EveryMindMatters.