Love My Neighbour: Christians urged to take action against winter loneliness

October 28, 2026
Love my neighbour

Faith in Later Life is a Body in Association of CTBI.
 

Faith in Later Life has joined forces with three national partners to encourage Christians and churches to reach out to their older neighbours this winter.

As the colder, darker months approach, Christian charity Faith in Later Life is launching its annual Love My Neighbour campaign, encouraging individuals and churches across the UK to help tackle loneliness and isolation among older people.

Running from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027, the campaign brings together Faith in Later Life, The Salvation Army Older People’s Ministries, Linking Lives and Houses of Light, united in their desire to see older people valued and connected throughout the winter.

For many older people, winter can be particularly isolating. Shorter days, colder weather, poor health and reduced opportunities to socialise can leave people spending long periods alone, with potentially devastating consequences for their physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

Love My Neighbour encourages Christians to put their faith into action through four simple commitments:

  • Pray for my neighbour – Pray for older people in our communities, asking God to bring friendship, hope and opportunities for connection.
  • Visit my neighbour – Make time for a conversation, a cup of tea or a friendly visit.
  • Invite my neighbour – Include an older neighbour in a church activity, outing, social gathering or shared meal.
  • Help my neighbour – Offer practical support, whether with shopping, household tasks or something else that would make a difference.

This year, the campaign is inviting people to sign up and make a pledge to take one or more of these four actions. By making a commitment, participants can turn good intentions into practical action and stay focused on loving their older neighbours throughout the winter months.

The campaign offers a range of resources and ideas, including a short video that churches and individuals can share to raise awareness of winter loneliness and inspire others to get involved. These are available on the Love My Neighbour campaign page.

Alexandra Huggins, CEO of Faith in Later Life, says:

“Winter loneliness can be devastating, especially for older people, but every single one of us has the opportunity to make a real difference. It isn’t rocket science – the simplest acts of kindness, friendship and practical support can be genuinely lifesaving and lifegiving.

“We’re encouraging people everywhere to think about the older people in their neighbourhoods, make a pledge and follow it through. Together, we can help ensure that fewer older people face this winter alone, while sharing something of the wonderful love and hope of Jesus.”

Online Launch & Prayer – Monday 2 November 2026

To mark the beginning of this year’s campaign, Faith in Later Life and its partners are hosting a free online Launch & Prayer event on Monday 2 November 2206 , 1.30–2.30pm.

The event will share the vision behind Love My Neighbour, offer practical ideas for getting involved and bring Christians together to pray for older people across the nation.

Individuals, churches and community groups are invited to join Love My Neighbour, make their pledges and encourage others to get involved.

Join the campaign, make your pledge and access resources:
https://faithinlaterlife.org/love-my-neighbour/

Join the online Launch & Prayer event:
https://faithinlaterlife.org/events/love-my-neighbour-launch-and-prayer-event