Skip to main content

Majority of disabled people are now chronically lonely

ALMOST two-thirds of disabled people are now chronically lonely, according to new research by charity Sense. 

The research, published today, warns of a mental-health crisis facing disabled people, with 61 per cent of participants saying they are always or often feeling lonely.

Today’s announcement revealed that the figure has jumped by a quarter since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Christine Punt, who has deafblindness, said: “I feel an overwhelming sense of isolation all the time, I have spent weeks at a time in bed. 

“I have felt more aware of my disability throughout the pandemic, and I get frustrated as I cannot rely on support in the same way.”  

Sense chief executive Richard Kramer said: “The government must recognise the severe impact that the pandemic is having on disabled people and improve the support available, so they are not left isolated and cut off from society.”

The charity is also calling on the public to sign its pledge, committing to help create a more accessible society, at: www.sense.org.uk/LeftOutOfLife 

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 13,288
We need:£ 4,712
3 Days remaining
Donate today