February 18, 2026 - 214 views
A new report from Public Health Wales has shed light on the scale and impact of loneliness and social isolation across the nation, describing social connection as a “fundamental driver of health, resilience and community wellbeing.”
Drawing on findings from the World Health Organization’s 2025 flagship report on social connection, the report places Wales at the forefront of efforts to tackle what the WHO describes as a global public health challenge. Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to increased risks of physical and mental health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, anxiety and dementia, and are estimated to increase the risk of early death by 14% and 32% respectively.
In Wales, the National Survey for Wales indicates that 13% of people aged 16 and over experience loneliness, while the same proportion report being socially isolated. Encouragingly, 71% say they feel fairly or very connected to their communities. The report also highlights that loneliness is not just an issue for older people; children, young adults, and working-age populations can all be affected.
Public Health Wales emphasises that good social connections can have a profound impact on individual health and community resilience. The report identifies links between social isolation and poor education and employment outcomes, including lower academic achievement, unemployment, and reduced income, demonstrating that the effects of loneliness extend far beyond mental wellbeing.
Wales has been recognised as a global early mover in tackling loneliness, being one of the first countries to introduce a national strategy on social connection. Across the country, a wide range of community interventions already exists, although the report notes that evidence on what works best for different populations is still limited. Strengthening evaluation of programmes is seen as essential to inform future policy.
Lead author Sara Wood, Policy and International Health at Public Health Wales, said: “Loneliness and social isolation have significant, negative impacts on individuals, communities and wider societies. Good social connections, on the other hand, can improve health and strengthen community resilience.”
Co-author Carys Dale added: “Supporting people across society to build stronger social connections is essential, not only to benefit health across people’s lives, but also to foster community well-being and resilience.”
For communities in North Wales, where rural isolation and limited access to social spaces can make it harder for residents to stay connected, the report underlines the importance of local initiatives — from community centres and youth clubs to outreach programmes — to help people maintain meaningful connections.
The full report, Loneliness, social isolation and social connection in Wales: A public health perspective, is available from Public Health Wales.
