A rural MP has called for more to be done to address rural lonliness
A growing dependence on digital technologies could leave elderly rural residents feeling isolated and lonely, an MP has warned.
Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Rural Services, Derek Thomas said ‘the race' to digital-only support services could see significant numbers of countryside communities ‘left behind'.
The West Cornwall MP said: "It is our job, and the Government's job, to pause and ask who will miss out or be left behind, and to ensure that that does not happen.
"As I have said, my main concern is those whose loneliness and isolation can be completely avoided if we get this right. Although change is welcome, we must be sensitive, take people with us, and accommodate those who cannot jump on in the same way that perhaps we can."
Recent analysis of Office for National Statistics data showed the number of people who are chronically lonely in the UK has risen to 3.83 million.
Mr Thomas had sponsored the Westminster Hall Debate which considered issues such as access to post offices, transport and communications.
A survey commissioned by the County Councils Network (CNN) earlier this year revealed that more than one in four bus routes in county and rural areas have vanished over the past decade with passenger numbers dropping to an ‘historic low'.
Labour MP for Nottingham South Lilian Greenwood said it was again those most at risk of isolation who would be impacted by a reduction in services.
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"Members said access to public transport is particularly important for the elderly and those with disabilities. There has been a marked decline in local bus services, particularly in rural areas, and again, a free bus pass is no help if there is no service to use it on."
In response to the debate, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, the Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP said: "Loneliness does not discriminate. The Government is committed to ensuring everyone can benefit from the power of meaningful connection, particularly the most vulnerable members of our society. Loneliness is a complex issue that we can only address in partnership and across sectors."
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Chief Executive of the Rural Services Network Kerry Booth said welcomed the discussion but added it was now time for action.
She said: "We know of the risks to both mental and physical health that isolation can bring, and we are keen to see the Government tackle some of the causes of isolation that particularly affect rural communities including the lack of public transport and the withdrawal of services from communities."
