The Camden New Journal has campaigning on social isolation

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This article appeared in our ‘Everybody’s Invited’ issue on December 5 – a special edition aimed at tackling loneliness and getting people out and about for Christmas

NOW it’s December, I won’t moan any more about people jumping the gun on Christmas.

All the tinsel was in the shops and the adverts had begun rolling on the television before the Halloween lanterns had been lit this year, and you get the impression some people would have the decorations up in August if they could.

There’s no need to be too much of a Grinch, but the constant reminder that IT is on the way does not come with the same measure of fun and anticipation for everyone.

As the statistics show, a third of us in Camden feel lonely and at no time is that feeling more pronounced than at Christmas when everybody else seems to be having the picture perfect time.

SEE ALSO CAMDEN IS OFFICIALLY LONELIEST PLACE IN UK

Imagine how all those party scenes feel to somebody who lost a loved one this year, but is somehow expected to carry on enjoying the same traditions regardless.

There are people struggling to get by like never before due to the seemingly never-ending cost-of-living crisis.

They are cut off from social activities they can no longer afford – and more likely to be feeling alone.

There are fewer Christmas parties thrown by cash-strapped employers, and the season can take more than it gives from those on the lowest incomes.

This is why today’s New Journal looks a little different. We have used our pages this week to show the scale of social isolation, the groups that are trying to tackle it and our attempts to play our part through our hamper appeal.

Our “Everybody’s Invited” also gives you a few ideas about how to get out and about this Christmas but that label – Everybody’s Invited – has been chosen to inspire readers to buy an extra drink, offer a chair at the table to someone you haven’t talked to before, make a visit to an old friend, send a card, send a message, and stop in on Gran.

Christmas is about giving, and the best present you can give is your time.

My Nan, Betty, died a couple of months ago at the age of 105! I had asked her what lay behind her amazing longevity and, apart from eating your greens, she said having good friends.

She was lucky. People used to keep her mind whizzing every day with visits, conversation and companionship.

It was a convincing argument for a long, happy life. A chat and a cuppa are maybe all we really need on our wishlists.

RICHARD OSLEY EDITOR

If you’re feeling lonely or struggling

THE NHS websites have various tips for combating loneliness but start with the important fact that nobody should feel ashamed. It is a common feeling and can appear in anybody’s life at different times.

It can be felt more powerfully at times like Christmas.

Tips include: l Keep in touch with people and enjoy regular chats. Message old friends and set up group chats. l Join a group. Clubs are a great way to meet people with shared interests and hobbies. l Get outdoors. Open air and being active is known to help boost people’s moods. l Share how you’re feeling. This one can be hard for some people as they see other people sharing perfect lives on social media – but not most people will want to listen. l Volunteer to help. There are lots of organisations in need of help – and it’s a great way to meet new people and feel a sense of accomplishment. See the NHS for more.

If you are struggling you can phone the Samaritans’ 24-hour line on 116 123