Applause for film highlighting loneliness

An audience burst into spontaneous applause following the screening of an emotionally charged film highlighting loneliness and isolation.

A second chance to see the documentary All the Lonely People proved a great success, said Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin. ‘Once again it was very well received and provided lots of food for thought,’ she said following the screening at The Hive, an arts and creative centre in Shrewsbury.

The film, made with the support of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, was created by two acclaimed Californian filmmakers: renowned producer Joe Applebaum and award-winning director Stu Maddux.

The documentary had its premiere in Shrewsbury, at the OMH cinema just before Christmas. It features a range of people, some living in Shropshire, others living in Alaska, New York and San Francisco, and highlights their experiences of loneliness and how they deal with it.

Joe and Stu first became aware of loneliness experienced in the largely rural county of Shropshire when, through their contacts in England, they heard of the help offered by Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire Council.

The Hive screening at the end of June saw a packed audience made up of invited guests who went on to engage with a lively question and answers session after the film.

‘It really was an excellent evening,’ said Heather. ‘It gave us all the opportunity to explore the paths people are taking to alleviate loneliness, what organisations and professionals have to offer, and how communities are responding.’

‘Once again, I’d like to thank Joe and Stu for producing such a wonderful, moving, and thought-provoking film.’

To find out more about Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin’s Wellbeing services call us on 01743 233 123.