One against loneliness campaign

Eén tegen eenzaamheid

The One Against Loneliness action programme, led by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, aims to reduce loneliness in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. While the programme previously focused on loneliness reduction among older persons, due to its success, it has been extended to all age-groups. The programme includes three action areas: increasing awareness in society about loneliness, promoting more social initiatives against loneliness, and implementing a local approach against loneliness in all municipalities. Specific activities of the programme involve a public campaign and communication activities, a week against loneliness, dedicated funding for research and knowledge generation, and support of local activities. In implementing the various activities, the Ministry has collaborated with municipalities, social organizations, companies and citizen initiatives. An evaluation of the programme showed that it has contributed to reducing loneliness among older persons. The programme has led to the creation of a multi-faceted movement among different stakeholders and three quarters of municipalities that are committed to reduce loneliness among older persons.