RISING costs are the number one reason why people are unable to socialise and feel connected, a survey has found.

A majority of people (86 per cent) said that at least one economic factor had made it harder for them to build connections since 2020.

The rising cost of living was the most common issue, mentioned by 58 per cent.

Just over a third referenced housing affordability, amid rising rents or mortgage payments, and a similar proportion cited the costs of travel, activities and socialising.

Social connection in Britain has become “harder and more costly for millions,” said Kim Samuel, the founder of the Belonging Forum, which commissioned the research.

“Belonging in the UK hasn’t disappeared, but it has frayed since the pandemic,” she added, suggesting that there should be more investment in “affordable ‘third spaces,’ the places where people from different walks of life can meet, mix and build bridges.”