Loneliness Awareness Week 2026: Giving Loneliness a Voice

15–21 June 2026 marks Loneliness Awareness Week, a global campaign led by the Marmalade Trust to raise awareness of loneliness, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations about connection and belonging. This year’s theme is "Giving Loneliness a Voice", creating space for people to talk openly about their experiences and helping communities better understand the impact loneliness can have on people's lives.

Loneliness Can Affect Anyone

Loneliness is a natural human emotion and something that many people experience at different points in their lives. It is important to remember that loneliness is not the same as being alone. People can feel lonely even when surrounded by others, while some people who spend time alone may feel perfectly connected and content.

Life changes such as retirement, bereavement, caring responsibilities, illness, moving home, unemployment, or simply feeling disconnected from those around us can all contribute to feelings of loneliness. Research continues to show that prolonged loneliness can have a significant impact on both physical and mental wellbeing.

Why This Week Matters

Despite how common loneliness is, many people still find it difficult to talk about. Feelings of shame, embarrassment, or fear of judgement can prevent people from reaching out for support.

Loneliness Awareness Week aims to challenge these misconceptions by encouraging honest conversations and reminding people that they are not alone in how they feel. By sharing experiences and listening to others, we can help create communities where people feel seen, heard, and valued

Small Connections Make a Big Difference

You do not need to organise a large event to make a difference. Sometimes the smallest actions can have the biggest impact:

• Check in with a friend, neighbour, or colleague.
• Invite someone for a coffee or a walk.
• Attend a local community group or activity.
• Volunteer with a local organisation.
• Start a conversation with someone new.
• Reach out to someone you have not spoken to in a while.

Simple acts of connection can help people feel less isolated and more connected to their community.

The Role of the VCSE Sector

Across Hull and East Yorkshire, charities, community groups, faith organisations, sports clubs, libraries, and volunteers play a vital role in reducing loneliness and social isolation. Every community café, walking group, peer support network, lunch club, volunteering opportunity, and local activity creates valuable opportunities for people to build relationships and feel part of something bigger.

For many people, these community spaces are often the first step towards improved wellbeing, confidence, and belonging.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you are an individual, community group, business, school, or charity, there are lots of ways to take part in Loneliness Awareness Week:

• Host a community activity or social event.
• Share messages on social media using #LonelinessAwarenessWeek.
• Encourage conversations about loneliness within your organisation.
• Promote local groups and activities that help people connect.
• Use the free campaign resources available from the organisers.

Find Out More

For campaign resources, ideas, and information about getting involved, visit:Loneliness Awareness Week

Together, we can help break the stigma around loneliness, create more opportunities for connection, and ensure that nobody feels they have to face loneliness alone. ?

Loneliness Awareness Week takes place from 15–21 June 2026 and is organised by the Marmalade Trust, the charity behind the UK's annual campaign to raise awareness of loneliness and social connection.