Social isolation: the need for inclusive solutions
- Written by: Andrena McMenemy — — DataFakts Ltd
- Published: 16th June 2021

Andrena McMenemy shares her thoughts on social isolation alongside the launch of the Mental Health and Deafness in Scotland report.
Mapping and providing services for people who are socially isolated has never been so necessary, but, while the pandemic has made it more topical, the need for these services is not new.
Social isolation is a daily occurrence for people who have sensory loss. The pandemic has given people in Scotland a unique chance to experience and relate to this isolation as never before. It has afforded the chance to metaphorically ‘walk in the shoes’ of those who experience isolation as part and parcel of life. Services will be needed to counteract the impact lockdowns have had on mental health, and it is vital that this service provision is inclusive, accessible and available to all.
Over the last two years, I have co-authored three research projects for deafscotland (this link will take you away from our website) in partnership with Queen Margaret University (this link will take you away from our website). These studies aimed at highlighting, and going some way to plug, the current gaps in data on the numbers of people with hearing loss in Scotland. The ‘Mental Health and Deafness in Scotland’ report is the next in the series of this research.
It is crucial to capitalise on the unique awareness the pandemic has brought with it and to break down the barriers so often encountered by deaf people. These barriers to inclusion are out in the open now and they are much harder for society and government at large to ignore. It is important that data is collected and shared so that service provision can reflect the numbers who need it.
It is important that ‘build back better’ is not just a slogan; it is important not to lose the momentum and understanding that has been achieved during these trying times. The first step on the road to this is to ensure that data is collected, reported and disseminated. Alongside this, it is vital to make sure people who need these services are part of the teams designing and planning those services. The co-production model needs to be used and it is vital that those with hearing and/or sight loss are at the table from the start.
‘Social isolation does not pertain to those who have voluntarily disconnected, rather, socially isolated people have an unmet need for meaningful interactions’ (Ramage-Morin, 2016).
Post pandemic society gives us a unique chance to make sure these unmet needs faced by people affected by deafness are finally met.
The ‘Mental Health and Deafness in Scotland: Exploring the Data’ report was launched on 9 June 2021 and can be downloaded here (this link will take you away from our website).
End of page.
You may also like:
Self Management Network Scotland member Caroline Brocklehurst tells us what she needs to take the lead in managing her health.
Continue readingMar Sánchez Fernández reflects on the importance of collaboration between the third sector and academia.
Continue readingReflecting on key messages from the ACRC Symposium.
Continue readingCould parkrun make you or your community healthier and happier?
Continue readingGrace Beaumont looks to the Principles of Self Management as inspiration for this year’s Self Management Week awareness raising activity.
Continue readingNan McKay Community Hall is a welcoming space in Pollokshields where community, health, and wellbeing come together.
Continue readingLouise shares her thoughts on the need for a statutory right to lifelong, independent advocacy.
Continue readingALISS is supporting GCHSCP's work to help people live independent lives by connecting them to support in their local community.
Continue readingKairos Women+ share the vital foundations of their creative anti-stigma work with women.
Continue readingToo many carers simply cannot make ends meet, but a Minimum Income Guarantee could be the solution.
Continue readingNational Stalking Awareness Week 2025, from 21-25 April, will focus on healthcare professionals spotting the signs of stalking.
Continue readingCOPE Scotland have developed a suite of resources to rebuild confidence and self-belief, crucial components of mental wellbeing.
Continue readingCuts to disability payments by the UK government are all the more worrying for lack of information on devolution impacts in Scotland.
Continue readingTo improve outcomes for children and young people, we must consider how we can build on GIRFEC for the future.
Continue readingHow funding community-led participatory creative projects can shine a light on intersectional stigma
Maeve reflects on the Anti-Stigma Arts fund and how community-led projects can lead the way in tackling stigma.
Continue readingThe role of museums in promoting community engagement, health, and education was a major theme of the discussions throughout the day.
Continue readingAt the ALLIANCE we believe that accessibility is a gateway to human rights.
Continue readingLorraine Glass, Director at respectme, reflects on the vital work they do to reduce bullying and improve wellbeing.
Continue reading“Before, when I thought about what happened, something inside me was stuck. Now, after sharing my story I feel lighter, and more free”.
Continue readingSustainable funding can unlock the transformative power of creative engagement for tackling stigma.
Continue readingTo build a positive culture of human rights, everyone needs to know and be aware of their rights.
Continue readingEveryone deserves a safe and affordable home - Scotland must act now to make housing a human right for all.
Continue reading'What Matters to You?' is a question that transforms live through kindness and compassion. Read the story of Napier House in Fife.
Continue readingHuman rights are the path to a fairer, stronger Scotland; each step we take today helps to shape our future.
Continue readingThe Charter of Rights for People who live with and experience issues around substance use is about to be launched.
Continue reading