Loneliness as an unresolved issue in social inclusion programmes

Abstract

Loneliness, social isolation and exclusion are worldwide social problems with negative effects which are exacerbated in deprived groups and communities. From a qualitative perspective, this paper examines the approach to loneliness in 62 community-based social inclusion centres and programmes for people experiencing exclusion in the Basque Country (Spain). The aim of the study was to identify good practice in dealing with loneliness in centres and programmes and to understand the main challenges in providing support from the perspective of practitioners. The results show that best practices focus on individualised or person-centred interventions, the generation of interaction spaces that promote social relations, accompaniment as an intervention tool, empowerment and community participation, and employment and socio-professional training. The main challenges and difficulties are grouped into four levels. These include the users' own individual difficulties (lack of motivation, progressive deterioration and poor social skills, etc.). To a lesser extent, insufficient professionalisation of inclusion services, insufficient resources (lack of human and material means) and society's own difficulties such as stigma and social rejection are mentioned. It discusses the community intervention implications that practitioners can take into account to mitigate the loneliness of people at risk and/or socially excluded.