CHIPPENHAM’S MP Michelle Donelan along with other MPs across the political spectrum have launched a campaign to help tackle loneliness – an idea first conceived by murdered politician Jo Cox.

The Loneliness Commission was originally pioneered by the Batley and Spen MP, who was killed in 2016, and now the Jo Cox Commission will look for practical solutions to reduce the impact of loneliness.

Miss Donelan said: “One of the main causes of unhappiness, which can lead to so many other problems, is loneliness.

“Heartbreakingly, around two-fifths of all older people – almost four million men and women – cite the television as their main form of company. We hope to tackle the crushing loneliness felt by so many people.”

The commission will work throughout 2017 to shine a light on different aspects of loneliness and steps that can be made to avoid it.

Sophie Andrews, chief executive of The Silver Line, a national helpline for older people, said: “Although loneliness cuts across all ages and backgrounds, older people in particular are more vulnerable since they are in the main less able to change their situation.

“This might be due to lack of transport, having a disability or lack of confidence which can quickly make their own front door become a barrier rather than a pathway to the outside world.

“For them, a phone call can be transformative – and in some cases a lifeline.”