Social isolation experienced by older people in rural communities: executive summary

Author:
COMMISSION FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES
Publisher:
Commission for Rural Communities
Publication year:
2012
Pagination:
9p.
Place of publication:
Gloucester

This executive summary examines social isolation experienced by older people in England’s rural areas. For some people, the effects of not having family close to home can leave them in a position where they do not have day-to-day contact with others. At a time when spending reductions are leading to changes in the way that public services are provided in rural areas, this document considers the impact of those changes on the lives of older people. It assesses the impact that Government policy is having on 3 key areas of policy and public services (social care, transport and housing) and the extent to which they address social isolation for older people. It also identifies a number of approaches, and examples of good practice, which can maximise the benefits of community and voluntary activity. The cost of providing social care to older people in rural communities is higher than in urban areas. This document argues that Government proposals to increase the level of funding available to rural local authorities are unlikely to address the greater imbalance between the level of need and the amount of funding available. It concludes with a series of recommendations.

Subject terms:
housing, older people, rural areas, social exclusion, social care provision, transport, volunteers, cutbacks, government policy;
Content type:
research
Location(s):
England
Link:
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