A SURVEY of people in York has shown loneliness is affecting the health and wellbeing of a significant proportion of people in the city.

Healthwatch York recorded feedback which suggested older people, those with health difficulties and mothers of small children can be particularly affected by loneliness.

The report has made a series of recommendations including setting up a working group on how to proactively address loneliness and to make sure key workers know how to help isolated or vulnerable people by referring them to services that address loneliness.

The Healthwatch report reads: "For individuals, loneliness is linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, sleeping disorders, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, cognitive decline and early onset of dementia. It can take the enjoyment out of many of life's experiences and day-to-day living, creating a downward spiral of negative feelings and behaviour."

Feedback came via a survey to which 97 people responded, and the consideration of work on loneliness by other organisations including the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and community surveys in Lidgett Grove, Copmanthorpe and Acomb.

Some 68 per cent of respondents in Lidgett Grove, 35 per cent in Copmanthorpe and 48 per cent in Acomb said feelings of isolation and loneliness affected their quality of life.

Meanwhile, a survey of patients to use the escorted transport service run by Age UK, found people missed having regular company and some even found going into hospital pleasant as they were surrounded by people.

Their comments included: "I have no family or friends, so having a nurse come round who listens to me has been great" and "My family are all getting on with their lives...They are busy... I don't want to burden people."

Others suggested their loneliness was connected with depression and a feeling of deterioration.

"This report has shown how prevalent modern loneliness has become in today's world," the Healtthwatch York report found, adding there is a need "for inteventions tailored to the needs and situations of those experiencing loneliness in order for them to be effective."

"York is fortunate to have a wealth of information about thise suffering loneliness. We also benefit from a wide range of organisationsworking to alleviate the difficulties people experience as a result."

Recommendations have been made to organisations including the council's health and wellbeing board, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Vale of York Clinical Commissioing Group and NHS England.