The Red Cross polled over 4,000 UK adults and found that 51% of people in Birmingham said they had become much less involved with their community over time, with 35% saying there aren’t people they know well in their local community.

The findings add to the charity’s growing body of research on the extent of social isolation and loneliness across the UK, as it calls on people to volunteer as a way to reconnect with their local area.

The survey also found that 66% of people in Birmingham are not actively involved in their local community while 49% say their neighbours are like strangers to them. Despite this, 57% of people polled in the area said they would like to feel more connected with their local community, with many not knowing how to go about it.

The Red Cross is calling on people to join the movement and volunteer, as a way to re-connect with their community, meet new people, and gain new skills.

From supporting in a local charity shop, fundraising at an event, or being there for someone in crisis – everyone has something to give. Chris Reed, director of volunteer mobilisation at the British Red Cross, said: “Social isolation and loneliness are serious and widespread issues. The findings of this research show why we must do more to help people stay in touch with their communities and build support networks in their local area.

“By volunteering with the Red Cross you can make a real difference in your community whilst meeting new people and learning new skills. Whatever your experience, and no matter how much time you have to give, we can all play a part in building kinder, more connected communities.”