Research exploring the stigma associated with loneliness
An evidence review and qualitative research commissioned by DCMS to explore the stigma associated with loneliness.
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A key objective of the government’s tackling loneliness strategy is to reduce the stigma associated with loneliness so that people feel better equipped to talk about their social wellbeing. In our review of the evidence base on loneliness, published in January 2022, one of the gaps identified was our understanding of the relationship between stigma and loneliness.
Therefore, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) commissioned a rapid evidence assessment to explore:
- The existence of loneliness stigma;
- The relationship between stigma and loneliness, including whether some groups are more likely to experience loneliness stigma;
- The impact of loneliness stigma; and
- What works in tackling loneliness stigma.
Building on this, DCMS commissioned qualitative research to further understand how stigma is experienced across the life course. The research explored:
- Understandings and expressions of loneliness;
- Barriers that prevent people from taking actions to overcome their loneliness;
- How these issues are experienced across different population groups;
- The experience of loneliness stigma; and
- Strategies for reducing this stigma.