Portsmouth University evaluated a the Close Encounters Service in Portsmouth and Gosport and showed a reduction in loneliness among older people.
The Close Encounters Service aimed for Age UK Portsmouth and Gosport Voluntary Action to work together to reduce loneliness through a community engagement plan to integrate older people back into their communities so that they could meet others and enjoy life to the full.
The review found that loneliness scores improved - reflected in a declining number of participants feeling dissatisfied with their relationships, friendships and having enough people to talk to. The review data was echoed in the interviews done as part of the evaluation, which highlighted that the service’s user-led and empowering approach led to goals being achieved and satisfied service users. See the report via this link: