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<p>Through the evidence gathered in the 2017-18 Community Life Survey in England,
indicators linked to social exclusion do not show a significant difference between
urban and rural areas. Adults living in rural areas are less likely to say that they
often/always feel lonely than people living in urban areas (3% compared with 6%).
In addition, adults living in rural areas are more likely to say they feel they belong
to their immediate neighbourhood (68%) than those living in urban areas (61%).</p><p>
</p><p>The cross-government loneliness team, based in DCMS, is overseeing the implementation
of England’s first Loneliness Strategy, with policies for both rural and urban areas.
Government has also unlocked £20 million to tackle loneliness across England including
the £11.5m Building Connections Fund, from which evidence will be gathered on what
interventions work in different places, including rural areas. Guidance has also been
published with the Office for National Statistics to establish a consistent way of
measuring loneliness.</p><p> </p><p>In its response to a House of Lords’ report on
the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act in May 2018, the government reiterated
its commitment to rural proofing all policies. DCMS supports this through engagement
with rural stakeholders and utilising Defra guidance and statistical information.</p><p>
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