Wales leads in recognising social connections as a public health priority

Public Health Wales has published a report finding that about 13% of adults in Wales experience loneliness and noting Wales was among the first countries to adopt a national strategy on loneliness.

Public Health Wales has published a report examining loneliness, social isolation and social connection across Wales. The report draws on the World Health Organization's 2025 Commission on Social Connection and places its findings in a Welsh context. It reviews the scale, risk factors and consequences of loneliness and social isolation and outlines opportunities for action. Authors emphasise that social connection affects individual and community health and resilience. Key findings: - About 13% of people aged 16 and over in Wales report feeling lonely, according to the National Survey for Wales. - Time to Talk Public Health panel data show 13% of adults are socially isolated while 71% feel fairly or very connected. - Wales is among the first countries to introduce a national strategy to address loneliness and social isolation. - Loneliness and social isolation are estimated to raise all-cause mortality risk by around 14% and 32% respectively. - They are also linked with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, anxiety and dementia. - A wide range of local interventions already exists, but the report notes evaluation is limited and calls for stronger evidence on what works for whom. Summary: The report frames social connection as a factor with measurable effects on health, social and economic outcomes and highlights gaps in evaluation of community interventions. It provides a foundation for national and local partners to work together. Undetermined at this time.