The British Red Cross is introducing a brand new service in Camborne and Redruth to tackle loneliness and social isolation, in partnership with the Co-op.Responding to its research which found over 9 million of us regularly feel lonely the Red Cross’ new Community Connectors are ready to provide a helping hand to adults of all ages who feel they have no one to turn to. This includes new parents, people dealing with bereavement, and those going through divorce or separation – many of whom feel in need of a bit of extra support.Loneliness is not something a new Mum would expect to feel, but the research indicates they are a group who are particularly vulnerable to becoming isolated often due to tiredness, constant demands for attention from the new baby, and changes to their usual social interactions.If it continues for too long, loneliness can pose risks to our physical as well as our emotional health. Its impact can be as damaging to health as smoking and obesity.If you’re struggling with life’s demands or simply don’t know where to turn for a friendly chat, Red Cross volunteers, like Andrea, can help.Andrea Kitto, from Camborne, struggled with loneliness for two years. She is now a volunteer with the Community Connector service and is hoping to use her personal experiences to help others.She said: “I know I can support people who feel cut off from their community. I understand how they feel and what they’re going through. I know what loneliness is, but I also know help is out there."“As a Community Connector volunteer I will be offering companionship and support to people who feel very alone. It’s a lovely feeling knowing that you’re doing something positive for someone and helping them get their identity and self-confidence back.”The British Red Cross is looking for friendly people to join its team of volunteers helping people towards a brighter and better-connected future. By giving just a few hours a week you can join with others and together make a big difference to the lives of people who feel alone in your area.For more information about volunteering, or to help someone affected by loneliness or social isolation receive support, contact the British Red Cross Community Connector service at ConnectCornwall@redcross.org.uk or call 01235 552 660.