Politicians and charities have thrown their support behind our campaign and encouraged more readers to get involved.
West Dunbartonshire Council leader Jonathan McColl and Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie called upon neighbours and relatives to do their bit in the lead up to Christmas.
Charity Age Scotland also welcomed our Lonely This Christmas campaign and is urging everyone to take a little time out from the pre-Christmas rush to think of older friends, relatives or neighbours who might be feeling lonely.
The SNP council leader said: “The Lennox Herald’s campaign is really important for raising awareness about loneliness in our communities, especially around the festive season, and I’d like to thank the newspaper for taking on this cause.
“The council and other public bodies can only do so much, and we need neighbours and relatives to do what they can to ensure nobody is left on their own this Christmas.”
Meanwhile, the Labour MSP encouraged everyone to get behind it.
Ms Bailiie said: “The Lennox Herald campaign to address loneliness in the Dumbarton constituency will have a hugely positive effect on our community.
“Far too many local residents go for too long without speaking to anyone and a cold, dark winter is not compatible with getting out and about to socialise, especially for older people.
“I encourage everyone to get behind this campaign and make a conscious effort to help end loneliness in our community.”
We’re told Christmas is the most wonderful time of year, but it can also be the loneliest for tens of thousands of older people in Scotland.
While most of us are looking forward to celebrating with friends and family, Age Scotland say it’s sobering to think of almost 110,000 older people sitting down to dinner alone on Christmas Day.
Something as simple as a friendly chat, a card, or popping round for a cup of tea and a mince pie could really brighten someone’s day.
Brian Sloan, chief executive said: “Our new research shows the heart-breaking extent of Scotland’s loneliness epidemic, which can be especially acute at this time of year.
“For those who have lost a loved one, there’s no doubt this is the toughest time. Older people tell us they are dreading December 25 as it brings back too many memories of happy times and those who have passed away.
“In West Dunbartonshire around 3,400 older people can go half a week without a visit or even a phone call.
“It’s easy to feel helpless when faced with the scale of this problem. But we know there is some great work going on by groups around Scotland, with volunteers giving up their time to reach out to those on their own.
“We welcome the Lennox Herald’s support in highlighting the issue of loneliness among older people and hope that together we can work to improve the lives of those affected both at Christmas and throughout the year.”
