04/06/2026
New Community Life Survey Launches to Tackle Loneliness and Strengthen Belonging in Northern Devon
A new Community Life Survey has launched across North Devon and Torridge, aiming to better understand local experiences of connection, loneliness, and belonging – and to inform collective action to improve community wellbeing and inclusion across Northern Devon.
Led by North Devon Voluntary Services (NDVS) and supported by North Devon Council, the survey invites all residents to share their views:
👉 Take part here:
https://letstalk.northdevon.gov.uk/community-life-survey
The survey forms part of the ‘Thriving in Northern Devon’ partnership strategy, led by One Northern Devon and Northern Devon Futures, which aims to strengthen community wellbeing, inclusion, and resilience across the area.
This local initiative builds on national data which has highlighted concerning levels of loneliness and reduced sense of belonging across Devon. However, partners recognise that national surveys do not fully capture the unique realities, strengths, and challenges of communities in Northern Devon.
Partners across health, local government, and the voluntary sector are supporting this work and actively sharing the survey with colleagues, service users, patients, and local communities to ensure as many voices as possible are heard.
Marie Gould, CEO of NDVS, said:
“We hear every day about the impact of social isolation, loneliness, and not feeling part of a community. At the same time, we also see the incredible ripple effect of volunteering, kindness, and people coming together.
This survey is about understanding both – what’s working well, and where we need to do better – so that we can build stronger, more connected communities together.”
The survey uses recognised Community Life Survey questions, enabling comparison with national data, while also capturing local insight to create a meaningful baseline for Northern Devon.
The findings will:
Help identify where support is most needed
Highlight community strengths and local assets
Inform future collaborative action across organisations and communities
Support strategic priorities around health, wellbeing, and inclusion
Support long-term work to reduce loneliness, strengthen belonging, and tackle inequalities
Residents, community groups, and organisations are encouraged to participate and share the survey widely.
🗓 The survey is open until: Monday the 3rd of August
Paper copies of the survey are being made available through local community locations. If you would like to receive a paper version, please contact: [email protected] or call 01271 861300.https://letstalk.northdevon.gov.uk/community-life-survey
