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<p>Social isolation and loneliness are different concepts but have very close links.
Given also the close links between them and poor physical and mental health, I am
a member of the newly formed Ministerial Group on Loneliness.</p><p> </p><p>To support
the Government’s commitment to tackling loneliness, including a new loneliness strategy
and fund, the Department will continue to support policies and programmes such as
social prescribing, dementia friendly communities, improved mental health and the
recently published Carers Action Plan.</p><p> </p><p>Feelings of social isolation
and loneliness are not exclusive to the elderly but this group can be particularly
affected. The Green Paper on the care of older people which will be published in the
autumn, will set out a number of proposals to help older people live healthier, longer,
and more independent lives.</p>
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