Loneliness doesn’t always look lonely. It can wear a brave face, smile in the mirror, and go unnoticed even in a crowd. But for over 940,000 older people in the UK, it’s a daily reality. For many, it begins the day the routine stops, the day they retire.
The Civil Service Retirement Fellowship (CSRF) believes retirement offers renewal, purpose, and meaningful connection. The CSRF exists to ensure no former civil servant faces retirement alone, through befriending, local groups, and support services, and rediscovering the community.
Eamonn & Paul’s story
After retiring from HMRC, Eamonn has been very involved with the CSRF and has been seeking to Befriend others. He joined the CSRF’s befriending network and attended an online conference. During a Zoom breakout session, something unexpected happened.
On screen was Paul, another retired civil servant, also a befriender and someone Eamon had not seen in years. They had worked together at HMRC decades ago. In that moment, an old friendship was beautifully reignited.
Today, both Eamonn and Paul are active CSRF befrienders, regularly connecting with others who may be feeling lonely and those who need companionship. In helping others, they have rekindled their sense of connection, friendship, and shared purpose.
Why befriending matters
The CSRF’s befriending service is not just about alleviating loneliness. It is about rebuilding the invisible social fabric that many lose after retirement. Whether it is a chat, a letter in the post, or a meet up over tea and cake. These simple acts can transform lives.
How can you help
If you are working in the Civil Service, you can become a Digital Donor for just £3 a year (less than the price of a coffee!). Join here and support your retired colleagues and be part of the community: www.csrf.org.uk/digitaldonor
If you are retired, transitioning into retirement, or know anyone who is, you or they can become an Annual Supporter this year at the reduced rate of £13.
You can join this growing network, create meaningful connections, and help support your community that will one day help you. Sign up here today: https://csrf.org.uk/support-us/annual-supporter/
This Loneliness Awareness Week, help to build bridges and not barriers. Sometimes, a kind word or a familiar face is all it takes to make someone feel like they belong again.
Get involved and support the CSRF to make sure no civil servant faces retirement alone.
Written by Hasnath Kalam, CSRF Marketing and Communications Manager