For many people, Christmas is a happy time, a chance to take a break from work and catch up with family and friends.

But for many, it is a less joyous time, with significant numbers of people likely to spend the festive season on their own, often with painful or sad memories.

New figures suggest that 23 per cent of those aged over 65 – the equivalent of 2.5 million people in Britain – are not looking forward to Christmas.

The report by Age UK also highlighted how loneliness and the sense of isolation becomes a bigger factor during the cold, dark winter months.

Some 2.1 million of us worry that we can’t get out and about as much during these months, aggravating the feelings of loneliness.

SureCare’s army of experienced carers are all too aware of this situation and provide much needed companionship services not just during the festive season, but throughout the year.

The work and life pressures on families mean it can often be difficult for loved ones to meet up as much as they would like to. Unlike 30 years ago, families are often spread much further apart – not just in the UK, but globally.

One of the most valuable services we are asked to provide is simply to spend time with elderly people, perhaps sharing a meal, playing a board game or just having a conversation.

We are all guilty of rushing around in today’s crazy 24/7 world, making it easy to forget the simple pleasures in life.

Caroline Abrahams, charity director of Age UK, said: “People’s social networks often shrink due to life-changing events such as retirement or bereavement which can increase the risk of feeling lonely.”

Age UK’s report went on to highlight how funding cuts had reduced the number of social outlets available to these people, such as lunch clubs.

It means that the work of charities such as Age UK and care providers such as SureCare has never been more important.

We will be doing our best to bring some happiness to the millions of elderly and lonely people this Christmas, but it is also something all of us can play a part in by keeping an eye out for our neighbours and loved ones.