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Report shines a light on loneliness, isolation and connection amongst young adults
Feeling lonely or isolated is mainly seen as an older person’s issue. But in recent years, the opposite has been true. Data tells us that loneliness and social isolation among young people is increasing, with 16-24 year olds now reporting the highest levels of loneliness of any age group in the UK. Around one in five 18-34 year-olds say that they have one or no close friends.
In 2024, a group of Norfolk based public sector and civil society organisations were invited by the Institute of Community Studies (part of the Young Foundation) to take part in a participatory policy making learning journey. Together we focused on the challenge of youth loneliness and social isolation.
This report shares what we did and what we learnt from young adults about loneliness and isolation in Norfolk. It also outlines some of the exciting next steps we’re taking, working alongside an energetic group of young adults to bring to life innovative ideas that look to build better connections amongst young people in Norfolk. We’ll share more on this in the coming months.
“Whilst this research outlines the challenges for young people in Norfolk, we’re not stopping here. Over the next few months, we’ll be working as a group of four innovators to propose practical, meaningful solutions that empower young people and ensure their voices are heard.”
The Project Connect Team
We are a team of people from different organisations in Norfolk. We’ve been given a small pot of money by The Young Foundation to test out an inclusive and collaborative approach to policy making.
Our partnership includes:
- Kirsten Haywood and Ella Firebrace from the Research and Innovation team at Norfolk County Council
- Katy Rutherford (former staff), Megan Pay and Jamie Kowalyk at the Norfolk Community Foundation
- Rik Martin from Community Action Norfolk and Rebekah Bensley-Mills from Lily, Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk
- Jordan Ayden, a PhD researcher from University of East Anglia
Get in touch: If you have questions about Project Connect, please email Kirsten.haywood2@norfolk.gov.uk or Ella.firebrace@norfolk.gov.uk
Help and support: If you are struggling with social isolation and loneliness or feel you could use other mental health and wellbeing support, please get in touch with an organisation who can help, such as: