Loneliness among older adults in the UK is a pressing issue, with Age UK estimating that around two million seniors frequently experience isolation. Many are also primary caregivers for their spouses, facing this challenge largely alone. Traditional volunteer befriending programs are struggling to meet demand, leaving many older individuals on long waiting lists and some never receiving support.
Enter Comfort Companions CIC, a family-founded social enterprise based in Portishead. Founded by Grant Mackenzie alongside his 86-year-old father, Tom Mackenzie, the venture offers a voice-based digital companionship service aimed at providing conversation, reassurance, and emotional support to older people.
Launching this September, the service will pilot through a partnership with Age UK South Gloucestershire’s Time4You programme. Initially, it will support 30 spousal carers of people with dementia, as well as older adults currently waiting for befriending services. The initiative will also extend to walking groups, day activities, and digital inclusion sessions, with Age UK volunteers assisting participants in getting started.
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Grant Mackenzie explains, “Our partnership with Age UK ensures no one is left behind. This service isn’t about replacing human contact but providing someone to talk to when no one else is available. For those facing chronic loneliness, a digital companion can be a vital lifeline.”
Tom Mackenzie, the project’s co-founder and inspiration, adds, “I see many people my age struggling. If we can help even a few feel less alone, it makes this effort worthwhile.”
Mark Flower, Chief Executive of Age UK South Gloucestershire, highlights the urgent need: “The demand for befriending far exceeds the supply. Too many older individuals pass away waiting for support. This pilot can provide a crucial lifeline for those who might otherwise go unheard.”
The issue is particularly acute locally. Nearly one in four residents in North Somerset is aged 65 or older, and South Gloucestershire has experienced a 22% increase in its older population over the past decade. In South Gloucestershire alone, seven older people died last year while still awaiting a befriending volunteer.
Supported by the NIHR HealthTech Research Centre and the University of Exeter, Comfort Companions is also developing a memory support feature aimed at individuals with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia. Set for launch in 2026, this tool will assist users by reminding them about medical appointments, helping manage care, and maintaining social connections.
With the UK’s aging population, rising caregiver demands, and limited volunteer resources, Comfort Companions aims to scale its affordable, easy-to-use model nationwide. The organisation envisions partnerships with local authorities, NHS bodies, and charitable organisations to broaden access and bring meaningful companionship to more older adults.