Friendship Tech : From Novelty To Necessity

In this Tech Insight, we look at how a new generation of digital platforms and community initiatives is rising to meet the growing UK demand for meaningful friendship, tackling loneliness through apps, events, and innovative social design that prioritises connection over dating.

A Growing Demand (And Rising Cost)

Loneliness in the UK is no longer just a personal struggle, but is now a public health issue. For example, according to the government’s 2023–24 Community Life Survey, around 3.1 million people in England report feeling lonely “often or always.” The Office for National Statistics puts the broader figure closer to 1 in 4 adults when occasional loneliness is included.