Patient ‘X’, who is now understood to be Phil Hazlewood

• I WRITE following up on your sad lead story (Mystery of Patient ‘X’ 30 days on, the man with no name, January 25).

It’s wonderful that the New Journal’s appeal was able to help identify the unknown gentleman in University College Hospital.

Janet Guthrie, my predecessor as chair of Age UK Camden (who was quoted in the story) made some compelling points about the incidence and effects of social isolation and loneliness in areas like Camden, and the need for community resources.

Isolation is reckoned to be as big a killer as heart disease or smoking. In urban areas, all too often we hear “I don’t know my neighbour”.

There is, however, some good community spirit in our great borough. Loneliness can affect all ages and the council leader Georgia Gould took action and recently convened a summit of key stakeholders to discuss ideas to address the issue.

Age UK Camden and Ageing Better in Camden are pleased to be already working with the council, Camden Clinical Commissioning Group and voluntary organisations to improve matters for older people.

As well as befriending and inter-generational activities, there are opportunities for older people to contribute. We are working on joining up and better publicising services too.

Community Connectors, now based at Age UK Camden, can help and is available on 0800 161 5716.

We will help older people find the group or activity for them, accompanying them if needed till settled in. It’s not all about older people needing to receive services; sometimes “doing stuff” or volunteering is a better fit. We’ll help there too.

With Tracey Crouch’s recent appointment as minister for loneliness this issue is of the upmost relevance.

MARY BURD
Chair, Age UK Camden
Board of Trustees