Big poll shows extent of UK loneliness problem 2 years after first lockdown

The latest findings came on today, the second anniversary of the first Covid-19 lockdown, after researchers had been tracking the opinions of 1,300 Britons since April 2020

The pandemic has left people feeling lonelier, a major poll has revealed two years after the initial lockdown.

Almost half now see fewer friends and family, and almost the same percentage leave the house less often.

Four out of ten 16-34 year olds feel lonelier, research by Ipsos UK and King’s College London shows.

And one in three believes their physical and mental health has deteriorated. Two-thirds say they have to wait longer to access the NHS.

Only two in ten felt their lives had returned to normal.

The latest findings were released today on the second anniversary of the first Covid-19 lockdown.

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Researchers have tracked the opinions of 1,300 Brits since April 2020.

Sir Jonathan Van Tam, outgoing deputy chief medical officer for England, said vaccination was key to continuing to beat Covid.

At a ceremony marking the release of his native Boston, Lincs, he said, “We will never eradicate this virus. We just have to remember that it is only through the power of vaccination that we are where we are today.”

At noon, a minute’s silence will be held to commemorate those who died during the pandemic.

And people are encouraged to shine a light or display flowers in their window at 8pm. Boris Johnson paid tribute to the heroic efforts of NHS staff. And he expressed his condolences to all those mourning the coronavirus.

The Prime Minister said: “Those who have lost to Covid will never leave our hearts and minds and today we reflect as a nation.”

More than 57,000 unpaid carers in Wales are set to receive a £500 lump sum for their role during the pandemic.