Loneliness UK in Burnley now using TikTok to beat health anxiety and isolation
A help group set up three years ago in Burnley to combat loneliness is hoping to make a difference again this Christmas.
Loneliness UK was formed by Burnley man Michael Helps, and originally came in the form of a letter-writing service – encouraging the public to write to elderly peopleand vice versa.
Three years on and Michael says that despite some setbacks he is still determined to help fight the scourge of loneliness in all age groups.
He said: “My journey with Loneliness UK has been challenging with many ups and downs but I still strive to make Loneliness UK a household name to support those in time of need.
“We are still urging anyone who is suffering with loneliness to pick up a pen and paper and write to us and tell us about their day. This can be done on-line or by post no one should ever feel alone. We are here to support and listen.”
However, while Michael still believes the ‘old-fashioned’ form of letter writing is a great way for elderly people to feel connected, he has also embraced more mordern trends recently in a bid to widen the audience of his help group.
He added: “Over the last three months I joined TikTok to share my journey with loneliness and loss. One video reached over 24,000 views with 133 comments from people across the UK who I have never met which was so heartfelt when reading their messages.
“When traveling across the UK I have made a commitment to upload a video sharing diffident topics from losing a loved one to health anxiety in the hope of reaching those who need someone to talk to and listen.”
Michael currently pays for everything out of his own pocket, so has now launched a GoFundMe Page so he can continue the free service.
“Loneliness UK will never become a service that people who are suffering with loneliness will have to pay for,” he added.
“Loneliness is a major global public health concern, recognised as a threat comparable to obesity or smoking, with significant negative impacts on physical and mental health, particularly among young people.
“Loneliness UK is accessible to all ages and is free. All you need is a pen, paper, envelope and stamp.”
For more information visit the website https://www.lonelinessuk.com/