While summer is often associated with social activities, holidays, and outdoor fun, it can also be a time of increased loneliness for many people.

Loneliness impacts each of us differently, and there are several types of loneliness that help define our own experience and perhaps help find a pathway to a solution:

Emotional (when someone you were close to is no longer there), social (when you feel like you are lacking a wider social network), transient (when loneliness comes and goes), chronic (ever-present loneliness), and situational (which you only feel at certain times like Christmas, weekends or perhaps summertime).

Approximately three million people in England of all ages say that they feel lonely always or often.

So, if you are feeling lonely, you are not alone. And there is no stigma in acknowledging it. Most people will experience loneliness at some point in their lives.

At North Herts & Stevenage Centre for Voluntary Service we support numerous groups that provide services to help reconnect the isolated and lonely.

This week, we are highlighting a few that support older people. However, it should be noted that those aged 16 to 24 report feeling lonely more than those in older age groups.

One major factor contributing to summertime loneliness is the disruption of routine. This interruption can leave people feeling adrift and disconnected.

Additionally, family and friends often take holidays at different times, leading to a temporary thinning of social networks.

Some community services and activities may pause for part of August. So, if you have a neighbour or friend, this could be the moment to have that cuppa you have always said you would have together!

If you are lonely, perhaps this could also be the time to reconnect with old friends, visit the library (or contact the Herts Home Library Service), check in at your local church or faith group, take up a new hobby like writing poetry, short stories, or even your life story.

Perhaps now is the time to start painting, try a physical activity or volunteer?

In both North Herts & Stevenage, there are several excellent social and activity clubs for older people.

Letchworth’s Howard Garden Social Centre (tel: 01462 682524) hosts a variety of activities during the week as does Stevenage’s Douglas Drive Senior Citizens Association (tel: 01438 357227).

The Irish Network Stevenage, based in Bedwell, offers superb activities and services for older people. Call 01438 725400 for details.

HertsHelp provide information and advice for all the community. Their team of advisors can help you find local activities and support, seven days a week on 0300 123 4044 or www.hertshelp.net.

Finally, a reminder that The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day by dialling 116 123 free from any phone.