GovWire

DCMS set up the Tackling Loneliness Evidence Group in 2021. The evidence group brings together academics and experts working in the field of loneliness to help coordinate loneliness research so that new research builds upon the evidence base without duplication and focuses on priority evidence gaps

DCMS commissioned the evidence group to produce this independent report, which provides non-specialists with an informed expert overview of the evidence gaps that still need to be filled in the field of loneliness. It is not a systematic review. The report also suggests priorities for future research on loneliness. It is intended for both policymakers and researchers in the field of loneliness.

The evidence group have committed to updating the evidence gaps table annually to reflect new research in the area.

Loneliness is a devolved policy area. Although the report focuses on UK wide evidence gaps, DCMSs work to tackle loneliness focuses on England only.

This report was written by the independent academics listed in the review, and the views expressed are those of the authors.