Post-forum report: Exploring Loneliness and Social Isolation: Young Adults’ Perspectives and Digital Solutions
On 13 June 2025, a one-day, participant-led forum titled “Exploring Loneliness and Social Isolation: Young Adults’ Perspectives and Digital Solutions” was held at St James’ View, Newcastle University Business School. Supported by the ESRC IAA Innovation Forum fund, the event brought together researchers, practitioners, and students for a vibrant, interdisciplinary exploration of how loneliness affects young adults—and how creative, digital interventions might offer meaningful support.
The day opened with a compelling series of talks from researchers across disciplines:
Fiona Duncan from Public Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University shared insights into community-level interventions designed to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
Dr. Carly Wood from Sport and Exercise Science, University of Essex presented research on therapeutic gardening, highlighting its positive impact on mental wellbeing and social connection.
Tara Crosbie, CAMHS Specialist, NHS discussed research on the role of technology in mitigating loneliness among young adults, offering a clinical and youth-informed perspective.
Professor Charles Dennis, Professor of Digital Marketing and Consumer Behaviour, Newcastle University Business School, gave a talk on how companion robots can enhance solo dining experiences and support emotional wellbeing.
Dr. Clara Crivellaro from Digital Social Justice, at the School of Computing’s Open Lab, Newcastle University, showcased co-creation projects with young people that envision socially impactful technologies for the future.
Dr. Min (Yami) Yan from Essex Business School delivered a presentation on different types of loneliness and the nuanced role that robots may play in either alleviating or reinforcing those experiences.
Xinhuan Shu from School of Computing, Newcastle University offered a visually and emotionally resonant presentation on “Loneliness Island,” an artistic data visualisation based on holiday tweets that captured the poetic dimensions of digital loneliness.
These talks reflected diverse efforts to understand and address loneliness and isolation among young adults while considering both the promise and ethical implications of technology as part of the solution.
In the afternoon, attendees took part in a lively and interactive Human Bingo session designed to deepen awareness of the lived experience of loneliness. Participants then formed small groups to co-design their own social or companion robots, shaped by personal needs for connection and mental health support.
By the end of the day, each group presented their robot concepts—showcasing a mix of creativity, empathy, and technological imagination. The atmosphere was warm, energetic, and inclusive, with participants clearly inspired by the forum’s collaborative spirit.
The forum successfully fostered cross-disciplinary dialogue between health, computing, social sciences, and marketing; youth-informed design and storytelling around loneliness; and innovative thinking about ethical and sustainable digital wellbeing solutions.
Participants later shared their enthusiasm on social media, praising the forum for its stimulating discussions, inclusive approach, and creative activities. The event has laid a strong foundation for future collaborations and community engagement initiatives.
Some quotes from social media posts:
“Such a great event, beyond just the intellectual exchange!”
“It’s always amazing to run into someone and realise that we can be friends. I met someone who can be my good friend.”
“….I am so grateful for the opportunity to participate and think about how technology, design, and empathy can work together to combat loneliness and support meaningful relationships. From insightful academic presentations to building our own robot, every part of the day felt genuine, thoughtful, and passionate. ”
“…Overall, the forum was extremely rewarding, not only enriching our understanding of digital and community solutions but also demonstrating effective teamwork—especially our team create a robot – Pistachio”
Picture folder: (verbal consent was obtained from participants for pictures= use)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19CpWXiJdxlFoNCy8OVR6aWZKPbJh0MJh?usp=sharing