If you’re following our Disability and Loneliness campaign, you’ll have seen our survey results which highlighted that:
- 47% of those surveyed said they felt lonely frequently
- 12% stated they always experienced loneliness
- Only 20% had spoken with their GP, caregiver or therapist in relation to the impact loneliness was having on their wellbeing
- 48% turning to friends and family for support.
- 9.7% feel they had no-one to help and 41% replied ‘Maybe’ when asked if they had a support network to turn to
- 38% believed that disabled people are the group that loneliness impacts the most
- 32% believing that it was the over 50’s demographic most likely to feel lonely
Throughout our campaign we will add useful links and resources to this page. In the meantime follow the hashtag #DisabilityAndLoneliness and visit the links below.
The Love Lounge
If you’re feeling lonely following a relationship breakdown or would like to start dating but are worried about rejection or disclosing your disability read the articles below. You can also write into our Love Lounge for advice from our resident sexperts.
Disability, Sex, Virginity and Safety
Finding the Confidence to Date Again
Dating and Living with Friedreich’s Ataxia
Why do attraction sparks never go anywhere for me?
How to Become a More Confident Dater
Rejection, Dating and Disclosing Disability
Professional Support and Helplines
You might also find it helpful to visit the following websites or to call their helpline if you need someone to talk to. Please don’t struggle alone, there is help available and it’s always good to talk.
CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably
MIND – The Mental Health Charity
WAVELENGTH – Fighting Loneliness
MARMALADE TRUST – Loneliness Charity
UNDRESSING DISABILITY HUB – our free hub is a network for anyone interested in, or working in the field of sex and disability. Searching through the members there will highlight counsellors and therapists should you want to find professional help.
Stay Connected
Follow #DisabilityAndLoneliness hashtag and join the discussion around our campaign on twitter @ETUKUndressing and on Instagram @UndressingDisability.