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An intimate portrait of loneliness, a new book written by psychologist Dr Sam Carr, All the Lonely People, has collected hours of conversations with people young and old, including single parents, carers, teenagers and the bereaved – all shared over countless cups of tea.

In stories of love and loss, of trauma and hope, told from care homes, living rooms, classrooms and kitchens, Carr discovers that while each of their stories is utterly unique, they are all born out of the same desire for human connection.

As Carr interweaves these touching and powerful tales with his own personal narrative, he opens a window onto the inner lives of regular people – the forgotten, misplaced or misjudged – who all feel isolated in some way.

Sparking a profound conversation about a universal emotion, which may simply be an inevitable part of life in an increasingly disjointed world, he questions what we can do to build stronger human relationships, and to be a part of something bigger than ourselves.

Loneliness is not just a physical state of being alone but a deeply emotional experience that can occur even in the presence of others. For those in palliative care, especially people who may be isolated, this loneliness can be overwhelming. Volunteers, through their compassionate presence and active listening, provide a crucial lifeline. They offer a sense of connection and understanding that can help bridge the gap between the ill and the outside world.

The book emphasizes the importance of empathy and genuine human connection. Palliative care volunteers are uniquely positioned to offer this support. By being there for the bereaved, volunteers help to validate their feelings, share in their sorrow, and provide a comforting presence. This support can alleviate the intense loneliness that accompanies bereavement, offering a semblance of normalcy and hope.

The author, Dr Sam Carr is a psychologist and social scientist with the UK Department of Education and Centre for Death and Society at the University of Bath. All the Lonely People serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of human connection.

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