Never Be Lonely Again
1402. Nicola Marsh
Nicola Marsh, from Prescot in Merseyside, created her Facebook page ‘Never Be Lonely Again’ following the death of her parents to provide a safe space for nearly 5,000 people to share their experiences and feelings.
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Nicola would use the online group to organise days out and allow members to meet. Since lockdown, ‘Never Be Lonely Again’ is maintaining a 24/7 online chat service for its members to ensure they can continue to feel safe discussing the problems they face and can connect with others.
Nicola’s award coincides with Loneliness Awareness Week, when people and organisations join together to talk about loneliness and raise awareness of the issue.
In a personal letter to Nicola, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“As we mark Loneliness Awareness Week, I wanted to write personally to express my admiration for the way you have channelled the sorrow of losing your parents to ensure that others who are grieving need “Never Be Lonely Again.”
“The loss of loved ones is devastating at any time, but never more so than in this period when families and friends have been apart from each other.
“So I was inspired to hear of your fantastic digital support service which is reaching thousands of people across the UK, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
“On behalf of the whole country, allow me to thank you by recognising you as the UK’s 1402nd Point of Light!”
Nicola said:
“This is amazing, thank you so much, I cannot believe this!”