News

Loneliness crisis among Welsh parents: highlighted by new survey

Published

1 year ago

September 24, 2024

A NEW survey commissioned by Home-Start UK, a leading family support charity, has revealed the alarming scale of loneliness experienced by parents in Wales. According to the findings, nearly four out of five parents (77%) report feeling lonely or isolated, highlighting an urgent need for support to address the issue.

The survey, conducted by YouGov as part of a UK-wide study, sheds light on the isolation many parents and carers face during crucial stages of their children’s development. The data indicates that social isolation is having a profound impact on parents, with consequences for both their mental health and their children’s wellbeing.

Key findings

One of the survey’s most striking findings is the prevalence of isolation among parents. Almost one in five (18%) say they rarely or never have meaningful contact with another adult outside their household, underscoring the extent of their isolation. Young parents are particularly vulnerable, with 28% of those aged 18-24 admitting they always or often feel lonely, compared to just 16% of parents aged 45-54.

Employment also plays a key role in shaping experiences of loneliness. The survey found that unemployed parents are three times more likely to experience loneliness than those in work (48% vs. 16%). Even among those who are not formally employed, such as stay-at-home parents, the rate of loneliness remains worryingly high at 36%.

The findings challenge common assumptions that men are less affected by loneliness. Fathers are just as likely as mothers to say they lack meaningful adult interactions (17% vs. 19%) and report experiencing frequent feelings of loneliness (18% vs. 20%).

Financial strains are compounding the issue, with families on lower incomes being disproportionately affected. Nearly a quarter (24%) of those from lower-income households report feeling lonely, compared to 15% from higher-income groups. The rising cost of living, cited by 48% of respondents, was the leading factor contributing to feelings of isolation, followed by mental health concerns at 43%.

Home-Start Cymru calls for action

In response to the survey’s findings, Home-Start Cymru, which provides vital support to families across Wales, is calling for increased volunteer numbers and donations. The charity is also urging parents to seek help, as they strive to expand their services to meet the growing demand.

Jayne Drummond, CEO of Home-Start Cymru, highlighted the charity’s success in supporting 1,250 families and 2,000 children over the past year, an increase of 4%. She noted that while stress levels remained steady, Home-Start Cymru’s interventions ensured families were able to maintain their resilience, despite the rising pressures of everyday life.

“We’ve seen an 8% rise in children’s mental health struggles, yet thanks to our support, these families have not seen a decline in their ability to cope. This underscores our vital role in helping them through these difficult times,” Drummond said.

Peter Grigg, Chief Executive of Home-Start UK, echoed these sentiments. “This survey paints a painful picture of a loneliness crisis in parenthood. Despite being more digitally connected than ever, too many parents are missing meaningful connections with other adults,” he said. Grigg stressed the importance of emotional support for parents, stating, “Parents and carers are the most important factor in a child’s development, so it’s crucial we provide compassionate communities of support during the critical early years.”

Impact of isolation and financial pressures

The survey also delved into the impact of financial pressures on family life. As inflation drives up the cost of essentials, many parents are forced to cut back on social activities, exacerbating their isolation. This issue is particularly severe for families with younger children, where distance from extended family and friends is often cited as a contributing factor to feelings of loneliness.

In response, Home-Start Cymru has joined a new national campaign titled “We answer the cries you don’t hear.” The initiative aims to raise awareness of the challenges parents face, from maternal mental health to the impact of the cost of living. As part of the campaign, three short films have been released to highlight these issues and encourage communities to offer more support to struggling families.

One poignant example of the charity’s impact comes from Zainab, a mother who fled Afghanistan and settled in Swansea after escaping the Taliban. Isolated as a new mother, Zainab’s situation improved dramatically after being referred to Home-Start Cymru by a health visitor. With the help of a volunteer, she learned English, gained confidence, and became more integrated into her local community. Zainab was so inspired by the support she received that she later became a volunteer herself, helping other families in need.

Her story is just one example of how Home-Start Cymru is making a tangible difference in the lives of families across Wales, offering not just practical assistance but a lifeline of human connection in a time of crisis.

As the cost of living continues to rise and mental health challenges mount, the charity’s call for greater community involvement and government support has never been more urgent. With more volunteers and donations, Home-Start Cymru hopes to continue its vital work, ensuring no parent has to face the loneliness of parenthood alone.

Crime

Bail revoked for teenager charged with rape following Sands Nightclub allegation

Published

6 minutes ago

December 18, 2025

Rieve Nesbitt-Marr

A TEENAGER charged with rape following an alleged incident at a Saundersfoot nightclub has been remanded into custody after bail was revoked at Swansea Crown Court.

Joshua Probert, aged eighteen, is accused of raping a woman at Sands Nightclub in the seaside village during the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity and no details that could identify her can be reported.

Probert was initially granted bail by Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. However, on Thursday afternoon (Dec 18) the Crown Prosecution Service applied for a special hearing at Swansea Crown Court, arguing that the earlier bail decision had been made without all relevant information being available.

The hearing was presided over by Paul Thomas KC. After considering new material put before the court, the judge ruled that there was a risk of reoffending.

There was also discussion that the defendant was at risk in the community due to alleged threatening phone calls against him.

Bail was therefore revoked and Probert was remanded into custody.

The defendant appeared in court supported by members of his family, including his mother, stepfather and father.

Much of the detail discussed during the hearing cannot be reported for legal reasons.

Probert is due to return to court in four weeks’ time as proceedings continue.

News

Welsh Government outlines new rights for homeowners facing estate management charges

Published

2 hours ago

December 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

HOMEOWNERS living on privately managed estates in Wales are set to gain new legal protections under changes being introduced as part of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, the Welsh Government has said.

In a written statement published on Thursday (Dec 18), the Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant MS, provided an update on how the legislation will be implemented in Wales, with a particular focus on estate management charges paid by freehold homeowners.

Until now, homeowners on privately managed estates have often faced unclear or high bills for maintenance and services, with limited ability to obtain information or challenge costs. Once fully implemented, Part 5 of the Act is intended to address those concerns.

New powers for homeowners

Under the reforms, homeowners will be given the right to challenge the reasonableness of estate management charges for the first time. Estate managers will also be required to provide clearer information about the services being paid for through those charges.

In cases where estate management has failed, homeowners will be able to apply to a tribunal for a substitute manager to be appointed. The Act will also require estate managers to publish details of any administration charges in advance, where payment is expected.

Jayne Bryant said the changes would bring “significant new rights and protections” for homeowners affected by estate management fees.

Welsh and UK consultations

Responsibility for introducing the necessary secondary legislation is shared between the Welsh and UK Governments. While many of the powers rest with UK Ministers, Welsh Ministers are responsible for rules relating to the publication of administration charges in Wales.

The Welsh Government has confirmed it is working alongside UK counterparts to ensure both consultations are launched at the same time, allowing homeowners and stakeholders to consider the full set of proposals together.

Homeowners are being encouraged to respond to both the Welsh Government consultation on administration charges and the UK Government consultation on the wider estate management regime.

The consultations are now open and form part of the process to bring the new protections into force.

News

Flood warnings issued across Wales as heavy rain raises river levels

Published

2 hours ago

December 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

FLOOD warnings and alerts have been issued across large parts of Wales as persistent heavy rain causes river levels to rise, with parts of the country facing an increased risk of flooding on Thursday (Dec 18).

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has confirmed that four flood warnings are currently in place, meaning immediate action is required, while a further 16 flood alerts have been issued where flooding is possible.

A yellow weather warning for rain has been issued by the Met Office, covering much of Wales from 10:00am on Thursday until 7:00pm, with disruption expected in some areas.

NRW said the warnings follow prolonged wet weather, with further heavy rainfall forecast to move across the country during the day.

The Met Office said: “An area of heavy rain will move northeast across the warning area during Thursday morning and afternoon before clearing to the east through the evening.

“Given recent very wet weather, there is potential for some disruption to travel and possible flooding.

“Much of the warning area will see 15–25mm of rain but some places could see 40–50mm, with the highest totals falling over high ground of south Wales.”

Forecasters have also warned that strong winds could worsen conditions, particularly along the coast.

“There is a chance of 60–70mph gusts along the exposed south coast, and perhaps 40–50mph some way inland,” the Met Office added.

Flood warnings in force

NRW has confirmed flood warnings are currently active at the following locations:

River Towy at Carmarthen Quay, Carmarthen
River Ritec at Tenby
River Towy affecting isolated properties between Llandeilo and Abergwili
River Rhyd Hir at Riverside Terrace, Pwllheli

Residents in these areas are being urged to take immediate action to protect property and personal safety.

Flood alerts issued

In addition, flood alerts — meaning flooding is possible — have been issued for the Lower Severn catchment in Powys, along with other areas shown on NRW’s live flood monitoring maps.

NRW is advising people to remain vigilant, avoid flooded roads and footpaths, and keep up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings.

The Herald understands that river levels will continue to be closely monitored throughout the day as rainfall moves through Wales.

Members of the public can check the latest flood warnings and alerts on the Natural Resources Wales website or by signing up for flood alerts direct to their phone.