Publish date: 20 December 2023
How using MECC can help to tackle loneliness and social isolation during Christmas
Clinical educator for Enhanced Care for Older People, Elaine Francis, has shared how using Making Every Contact Count (MECC) conversations can support people and tackle loneliness over the festive period.
Loneliness is a common feeling which many of us will experience at some point in our lives. It can be harmful to our mental and physical health and as we age, we often become more likely to experience these issues.
The holiday season is often associated with festive cheer, happiness, and togetherness. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for everyone. This period can also bring feelings of sadness, loneliness, and social isolation for those who may not have loved ones nearby or are unable to celebrate as they once did.
Research has shown that there is a link between social isolation and loneliness, and a range of health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. This is why it’s so important to check in on friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues. Even if it’s just a quick chat, it can make a huge difference to someone.
We’re here to remind you that there is a wide range of support available for anyone you recognise as being lonely or isolated.
At this time of year there are a wide range of community events available which provide a fantastic opportunity for people to come together, support one another, and create new connections. Sharing these events with each other can make a difference and provide a sense of belonging during this special time of year.
Using the MECC approach
Using the Making Every Contact Count (MECC) approach is a great way to support someone who may be feeling lonely, isolated or without meaningful social connections this Christmas. The MECC is approach is used by our staff to help patients, however it can also be used by anyone else to support colleagues, friends, and family.
The 3 steps of this approach are Ask, Assist, and Act:
Ask – Take notice and engage
- Do you have a network of friends and family?
- How do you feel about how you spend your time?
- What are your Hobbies or interests and how often do you do these?
- Do you have a close family friend or family member you could turn to for support if you needed it?
Assist – Provide motivational health information
- To ease feelings of loneliness, you could try and encourage them to meet more/different people.
- Allow the person to tell their story and talk about what is happening now.
- Be empathetic and support the person to understand their own circumstances.
Act – Signpost to a local service
- Suggest the individual maintains their self-care. This could include eating regular meals, drinking enough fluids, having regular showers, and getting enough sleep.
- Suggest setting goals for each day to give purpose and increase motivation.
- Signpost to a range of support services which are available to help reduce social isolation and loneliness, especially at Christmas.
For information on support across the region please visit the MECC Gateway.
Useful sources of support that you can use to signpost people to:
Age UK – General information on staying well and connected over Christmas.
British Red Cross - A range of resources and support available to reduce loneliness.
Campaign to End Loneliness (North Tyneside Libraries) – A signposting and resource organisation working to reduce and end loneliness.
Marmalade Trust – A self-help resource to support those experiencing loneliness.
MECC Gateway – Support for Loneliness and Social Isolation.
Royal Voluntary Service – Virtual Village Halls – An online activity hub and community designed to help people stay physically and mentally active, connected and having fun.
The Silver Line – Free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people - 0800 470 8090
Support for people in Northumberland:
Age UK – Social Groups held across Northumberland.
Elderberries – A community programme coordinated by Alnwick Garden Trust to help combat loneliness.
Warm Spaces – Have a chat and a warm drink with others in one of Northumberland’s warm spaces.
Support for people in North Tyneside:
Age UK – Social Groups held across North Tyneside.
Social Connections North East – Christmas Day lunch offered in community venues including The Boatyard, Cullercoats. St Aidans Church Hall, Billy Mill and Wallsend Memorial Hall. Referrals to be sent to socialconnectionsnortheast
Voda – Various initiatives such as the ‘Good Neighbour’ project and ‘winter support network’. Contact admin
Warm Spaces – Have a chat and a warm drink with others in one of North Tyneside’s warm spaces.