Loneliness Is One of the Biggest Health Risks We Face – And We Can Do Something About It

Loneliness isn’t just a feeling. It’s increasingly recognised as one of the largest public health challenges in the UK. The statistics are sobering.

Research shows that loneliness can increase your risk of death by 26%. It has been found to be as harmful to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and worse for you than obesity. It is linked to coronary heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, depression, cognitive decline and dementia.

This isn’t simply about being alone. It’s about being disconnected.

The Reality for Older People

The impact is particularly significant for older adults:

• The number of over-50s experiencing loneliness is projected to reach two million by 2026 that's a 49% increase in just ten years.

• Half a million older people go five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone.

• Well over half of those aged 85+ live alone.

• Nearly 4 million older people say the television is their main source of company.

Behind every statistic is a person.

Someone sitting in a quiet house.Someone who once had a busy family table.Someone who simply needs a way to get out.

Loneliness Affects All Ages

Loneliness is not confined to one generation.

45% of adults in England say they feel lonely at least occasionally, that’s 25 million people. Young adults, parents, disabled people, carers and those in poor health are all at higher risk.

Disconnected communities are estimated to cost the UK economy £32 billion every year.

But the real cost is human.

Where Transport 17 Comes In

At Transport 17, we see the difference connection makes every single day. We don’t just provide transport. We provide access. Access to lunch clubs. Access to dementia cafés. Access to friendship groups.Access to routine, laughter and belonging.

For many of our passengers, the journey itself is part of the connection - chatting with drivers, greeting familiar faces, feeling expected and welcomed somewhere. A minibus may seem small.

But it can be the bridge between isolation and inclusion.

Why This Year Matters

Demand for our services is growing, because loneliness is growing.

To continue meeting that demand, we need to raise £90,000 for a new minibus this year.

Without it, fewer people will be able to attend social groups and community activities that protect their physical and mental wellbeing. This isn’t just about buying a more reliable vehicle. It’s about keeping people connected.

How You Can Help

If these statistics move you, please consider supporting Transport 17.

You can:

• Make a DONATION

• Organise or take part in a FUNRAISING event

• Become a REGULAR SUPPORTER

• Encourage your workplace or community group to fundraise for us

Every pound raised brings us closer to our £90,000 goal. Every journey funded helps reduce loneliness. Every act of support keeps someone connected.

👉 Donate or start fundraising today and help us keep our community moving.

Because loneliness may be one of the biggest health risks we face, but together, connection can be a huge help to reduce lonliness.

If you'd like to donate hite the DONATE buttom on our website. if you'd like to help fundraise the hit the VOLUNTEER button on our website.

Thank you