How people suffering from loneliness are finding happiness again

The PM has made it a national mission to end loneliness in our lifetimes, but when the figure for those affected is more than a million and rising, is it really possible, asks Joe Lyness

Channel 4’s ‘Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds’ shows how cross-generational bonding can benefit both young and old (Channel 4/Joss Barratt)

“It can get terribly lonely at home when it’s just you and the four walls. Well, the four walls and the cat.” Bob Sawyer, 76, has lived alone since the death of his wife and says that since her death he has often felt lonely.

After spending a short time in hospital, a community support worker advised Sawyer to take part in a social activity hoping it could improve both his mental and physical health. Luckily for him, nestled in a housing estate just outside of Crawley, The Posh Club meets weekly.

Every Tuesday guests gather as the local community centre is transformed into a ballroom that plays host to a tongue in cheek 1940s style tea party for over-60s. Guests from all backgrounds are welcome and are encouraged to dress up for the event, where there is a range of different performances each week including Elvis tributes, musical one-man bands and burlesque showgirls.