We all feel lonely at times – it’s a natural human emotion. We're biologically wired for social contact, and loneliness is our signal that we need more. Most of us will experience loneliness at some point in our lives, regardless of age, circumstance and background. We all experience loneliness differently. It's important to remember that some people are at a higher risk than others. 

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Recent research has shown that disabled people in the UK are more likely to feel substantially lonely (25%), compared to adults with no disability (6%). In 2021, research by the disability charity Sense showed that nearly two-thirds (61%) of disabled people were chronically lonely, and this was even higher (70%) for young disabled people. So not only are this group more likely to feel lonely, they are also more at risk of experiencing chronic loneliness – which means that someone feels lonely often or always. ​

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Supporter of Marmalade Trust, Lucy, is a wheelchair user. She also has 10 years of experience working with disability organisations.  Below, Lucy shares her ideas and tips on what to consider and how to make new connections for disabled people with mobility difficulties, although many of these tips are also relevant for people with other disabilities.

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People with mobility difficulties face similar challenges, for example, with accessibility and a lack of understanding or awareness from others about specific needs. However, there are ways to overcome these barriers, which can, in the long term, help you feel more included and able to access the social connections you need.

 

Get support from organisations or healthcare professionals

Get help you access appropriate assistive technology - like wheelchairs and hearing aids - to help you participate in the social connection you want. A good starting point is contacting your GP or specialist disability charities like Sense.

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Plan ahead

Transport and access can be a challenge for anyone with a disability seeking social contact: so, it is important to plan ahead. You can do this by finding out if venues are accessible (with ramps or a hearing loop) and by making people aware of your needs. Also look at the various transport options available to you. 

 

• Train: You can book assistance in advance (e.g., to put a ramp down or to guide you to your seat).

• Bus: Most buses now have ramps, and you can apply for a bus pass for free bus travel.  

• Community transport: Look at local community transport options like Dial a Ride Bristol which have accessible vehicles.

 

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Talk about your experience of loneliness

Sharing your story can be a positive first step to helping others become aware of how you feel and the barriers you might face to accessing social connection.​​​