A WIRRAL MP has backed a new campaign urging people to help tackle loneliness.

Margaret Greenwood pledged her support for the Samaritans' 'Brew Monday' initiative during its launch in Parliament this week.

Its aim is to encouraging everyone to reach out to people who might be feeling lonely.

'Brew Monday' is a takeover of 'Blue Monday', the third Monday in January, which has been dubbed 'the most difficult day of the year'.

For some, it marks a point of broken resolutions, credit card bills and failed fitness plans – making the dark days and cold nights even harder to deal with.

A recent report by Samaritans shows that young people aged 16 to 24 report feeling lonely more often than older age groups.

The report found, among other things, that loneliness is a serious public health issue, that tackling stigma is critical to improving help-seeking for loneliness, and that schools, colleges and universities are crucial settings for reaching young people who are at risk of loneliness

Samaritans is asking the government to put young people at the heart of its action to tackle loneliness.

Margaret Greenwood MP said: "I was pleased to be able to go to this event in Parliament and support Samaritans' Brew Monday initiative.

"Brew Monday is about reaching out to anyone who might be lonely.

"A cup of tea and a chat can make a real difference to someone who is struggling with loneliness.

"The findings in the report around the links between loneliness and suicide in young people are a matter of serious concern.

"It is vital that we make sure young people, and indeed anyone who is feeling lonely and isolated, get the support they need.

"I would urge anyone who feels they need help from Samaritans to give them a call for free on 116 123 to speak to someone in confidence.

"If you would rather email, you can do so to jo@samaritans.org2