Thank you for your statement, Minister. As you are no doubt aware, tackling loneliness and isolation has been one of my top priorities and I'm pleased that you have also made it yours. I look forward to working with you on this subject. I was also proud to be part of the health committee, and we evidenced much, both inside and outside the Assembly. So, I was pleased with my interaction at that time. With around a third of our nation experiencing loneliness, we obviously have to act.

As you rightly point out, Minister, loneliness and isolation can have extensive impacts on our physical and mental well-being. Evidential studies have shown increased risk of heart attack, stroke and dementia from social isolation as well as high instances of depression, anxiety and sleep abnormalities.

Unfortunately, there are a multitude of reasons why someone can become socially isolated and lonely. We have to do all that we can to mitigate as many factors as we can. Loneliness and isolation are not defined by age, and whilst social media can enhance social interaction, it can also lead to bullying and people withdrawing from such activity.

So, Minister, your action plan’s top priority is to increase opportunities for people to connect. What discussions have you had with ministerial colleagues and local government about reversing and preventing the closure of libraries, day centres and leisure facilities? These community facilities are a lifeline for many, many people, particularly the elderly, and are key in preventing isolation.

I note from the strategy that you are giving focus to tackling digital exclusion. Whilst this is to be welcome and digital connectivity can play a role in tackling loneliness, I think we must err on the side of some caution here. Increasing digitisation can deny many elderly people meaningful human contact. So, Minister, what actions will you take to mitigate this risk? Staying with digital inclusion, Minister, what role do you see digital voice assistants playing in your strategy?

Community groups play an essential role in tackling isolation. The fantastic Hen Shed in Maesteg, which is in my region, is a great example of how voluntary groups can be at the forefront of our approach. So, Minister, what can your Government do to support groups like hen sheds and men’s sheds? Have you or your colleagues spoken to the Treasury to discuss what financial support can be offered such as VAT and business rates exemptions et cetera?

Finally, Minister, your strategy lists community infrastructure as its second priority. Apart from free rail travel for accompanied under-16s, there is scant mention of public transport. Minister, do you agree with me that good public transport links should be a priority in tackling isolation? What discussions have you had with the Minister for transport regarding measures to improve public transport links across Wales? Thank you. Diolch yn fawr.