Boost for radio and arts sectors with £7.5m funding to tackle winter loneliness

The radio and arts sectors are set to benefit from multi-million pound government funding designed to tackle loneliness during the winter.

Following the recent news about the Tier 4 measures, this funding package will aim to provide immediate and targeted relief to those most at risk of loneliness.

The funding will be targeted at sectors that have the power to bring people and communities together such as the arts, libraries, charities and radio, acting as a ‘lifeline’ to cultural organisations, charities and local community groups who are delivering work to ensure no one feels isolated in their local community.

Baroness Barran, Minister for Civil Society, commented: “We are coming to the end of one of the toughest years we have ever had to face and I know that the next few months will be a worry for many people who have felt particularly isolated or lonely during the pandemic.

“We still have some difficult times to overcome and it is important that we continue to provide support to those most at risk of isolation and loneliness over the next few months.

“There is already such important work being done in the arts, library and radio sectors to help bring people together and tackle loneliness. I am thrilled that the £7.5m funding package will have an immediate impact on those who need it most.”