A Powys service is tackling loneliness in elderly people across the county as figures rise above the national average.

The Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) has set up a befriending service to support elderly people in the area, as data shows that Powys pensioners are lonelier than their Welsh counterparts from other areas.

Powys Population Needs Analysis released the data which shows that 17 per cent of elderly people in Powys are lonely - which equates to around 22,500 residents - 1.5 per cent higher than the national average.

Diane Jones, lead officer of PAVO, said: “Telephone befriending has become our most popular befriending option alongside face-to-face support and we also continue to host weekly online groups which are particularly valued by our housebound clients.”

“Our clients tell us it is often the highlight of their week and for some it may be the only contact they have for several days.

“Last Summer our client referrals peaked at 632, from pre-Covid levels of around 370.

“Clients told us that due to COVID-19 they were experiencing anxiety about getting back out into the community and resuming the activities they had previously enjoyed.

“Their confidence had been impacted by lockdown and there was confusion about the changing regulations - simple trips to the shops etc became confusing and unfamiliar.”

The team is set to hold a series of drop-in events next month as part of their county-wide Powys Befriending Service Roadshow celebrating Befriending Week 2022 between November 1-7.

They are also aiming to recruit volunteers for their Powys befrienders.

Diane said: “If anyone is interested in volunteering with us, we have a range of opportunities available from running our community groups to visiting clients at home and enjoying a cuppa, to zoom calls or exchanging messages on WhatsApp.”

If you wish to join the Powys befrienders or require more information regarding their service, you can contact them on 01597 822191.