Loneliness

For many people, the time off work and bank holidays/long weekends may mean that they find themselves alone for longer periods of time than usual, this can lead to feelings of loneliness.

There are things you can do to tackle loneliness:

• Map your time out – loneliness isn’t always just about Christmas Day, it can be the days/week surrounding it as well. It can help to map out the time so that it doesn’t take you by surprise. Think about what you will be doing each day, having an awareness of when you are going to be alone is important, it could also give you the opportunity to plan something for yourself.

• Volunteer – If you are wondering what to do with your time alone, donating some of your time to a worthy cause could be something to enjoy whilst being able to interact with others at the same time. If you’re looking for somewhere to volunteer this Christmas, you could try:
  • The Trussell Trust– whether volunteering at a local food bank or collecting donations, there are a range of ways that you can help.
  • Re-engage– volunteer your time to become a ‘call companion’ to help the lonely elderly at Christmas and speak to and wish someone a happy Christmas.
  • NHS Check In and Chat– provide simple yet vital phone support to people at a heightened risk of loneliness.
  • One Another– a free platform that helps you to do small acts of kindness within your community.
  • Doit.life– recommended by the charity Mind for finding volunteering opportunities in the UK.
  • National Council for Voluntary Organisations– provides information about volunteering opportunities including details of local centres.
    
    
• Maintain Healthy Habits – if you’re feeling low it can be extremely difficult to do things, but maintaining your routine in the lead up to the festive period can help – eat healthily, get a good night’s sleep and move your body – a walk outdoors is also a great way to be near nature which is proven to promote mental wellbeing.
  
  
• Be Kind to Yourself – if you are feeling alone or low, that is okay! Take each day slowly and don’t put pressure on yourself to have a good time. Talk kindly to yourself.
  
  
• Speak to Someone – If you are feeling overwhelmed by feelings of loneliness or sadness it is important to speak to someone and get support/help, you could contact:
  
  
  • Your GP
  • Samaritans: a free listening service for whatever you are going through.
    T: 116 123 (24 hours, daily)
    W: samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
  • SupportLine: confidential and emotional support for people who are isolated or at risk.
    T: 01708 765 200
    W: supportline.org.uk/

Financial Concerns

 Christmas can take it’s toll on your finances and many people are feeling the strain with the ongoing cost of living crisis. It is important to not put pressure on yourself, we all like to give gifts but they don’t have to break the bank, you could give homemade biscuits, or vouchers for quality time.

For tips and tricks on how to save money at Christmas time visit:

https://www.frugalmum.co.uk/christmas-without-money-diy-celebrate-budget-family-children/

If you are struggling financially with essentials such as food and utilities, there is help available. StepChange is a debt charity who can offer support, advice and information on access to emergency financial support:

https://www.stepchange.org/debt-info/emergency-funding.aspx