During the past year, many of us have been working from home, and while for some this has meant more family time, others might be feeling increasingly secluded and lonely. However, even for those working in person, the feeling of loneliness can be a big challenge, with as many as three in five people reportedly experiencing loneliness at work according to a 2020 survey. In honour of National Loneliness Awareness Week, we took the chance to talk to Elaine Moon, Group HR Project & Analyst Manager, and learn more about combating loneliness in the workplace.
Why could more people be experiencing loneliness at the moment?
Due to the pandemic, everyone has had to reduce their face to face contact with others, which has led to more of us feeling isolated and lonely, depending on individual circumstances. This along with the fact that many people are now anxious about going out and the likelihood of more people staying at home for pleasure and work heightens the impact.
How do you help a colleague who you might think is experiencing loneliness?
Check in with them whether, by email, phone message/call or MS Teams chat. Ask if they would like to meet for a drink wherever is convenient and comfortable for them.
How can managers help people feel they belong whilst at work?
Include them in meetings, ask them how they are, ask for their opinions/suggestions with certain activities, start conversations with general talk rather than work. Also, find out what works for them in terms of communication so they don’t feel lonely – everyone is different so some individuals may want regular daily calls whilst others might be ok with one weekly call. Managers can ensure their team member know they are there if and when they want to speak to someone.
Are there any resources that people can go to if they’d like more help?
We have Mental Health Champions across the whole business who employees can talk to and organisations such as the mental health charity Mind help. Additionally, the NHS will give more support and information on how to deal with feeling lonely.
If you would like to get involved in Loneliness Awareness Week or would like to find more information on how to deal with loneliness, please click here.