New Parliamentary Group Launched to Tackle Loneliness and Build a More Connected Society

Recently, Parliament welcomed the launch of a new All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Tackling Loneliness and Connected Communities a significant step toward making social connection a national priority.

Chaired by Paul Davies MP and Lord Shaun Bailey and with Intergenerational England appointed as Secretariat, the group will bring together cross-party Parliamentarians, sector leaders and community voices to explore and address the growing impact of loneliness across the UK.

The APPG has been established with the support of the Campaign to End Loneliness and will champion solutions that are people-led, intergenerational and rooted in communities. Over the coming months, it will provide a platform for inquiry, connection and collaboration across Parliament and beyond.

“Loneliness and connection are among the most pressing issues of our time – affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. I’m proud to support the re-establishment of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Tackling Loneliness and Connected Communities. This group will bring together vital voices across sectors to champion innovation, drive forward meaningful change and develop the practical, long-term solutions needed to build a more compassionate and connected society.”

– Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Loneliness and social connection

“Loneliness affects millions across the UK, and it’s time we made connection a national priority. I’m proud to co-chair this APPG, which will unite voices from across Parliament and our communities to drive real change. Together, we’ll champion practical, people-led solutions that foster belonging and strengthen the social fabric of our society—ensuring no one is left feeling isolated or unheard.” Paul Davis MP, Labour MP for Colne Valley

“Loneliness is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. Through this new APPG, and in partnership with the Campaign to End Loneliness, we’re committed to placing connection at the heart of policy and public life.”

Charlotte Miller and Emily Abbott, Co-Founders and CEOs, Intergenerational England

“The APPG will support a wider societal and holistic approach to tackling loneliness and supporting connected communities. By recognising loneliness as a national cross cutting policy priority we can ensure that social connection is a priority across all areas of government, from health and social care, to housing, to education and employment.”

Professor Andrea Wigfield, Campaign to End Loneliness and Centre for Loneliness Studies, Sheffield Hallam University

The group will meet regularly in Westminster and in community settings, working to ensure that the realities of loneliness are heard and acted upon wherever they occur and at every stage of life.