SOUTHAMPTON is one of the kindest cities in the UK, according to a new app that connections lonely people with companions. 

Companiions brings together people who need help or friendship with trusted, insured, verified companions.

Users of the befriending network can book a visit from a companion for a chat or for help with tasks around the house for themselves or a loved one.

In analysing their app's users, they named Bristol, Reading and Manchester are Britain’s most caring places, boasting the most people per signed up to the app to help the lonely and vulnerable.

Southampton was ranked at number 10 in the UK.

Users of befriending network Companiions can book a visit from a companion for a chat or for help with tasks around the house for themselves or a loved one.

Cities with highest amount of companions

Location Proportion of companions, adjusted for population (%)

Bristol 8.5%

Reading 8.1%

Manchester 7.2%

Preston 7.0%

York 6.9%

Newport 6.3%

Nottingham 6.0%

Warrington 5.8%

Glasgow 5.6%

Southampton 5.4%

Source: Companiions

Manchester leads the way when it comes to the cities with the most companions per user, meaning that loved ones in the North West have the biggest chance to find someone best suited to them. Both Leeds and Coventry, like Manchester, have more than eight companions available per user.

Southampton was again ranked at number 10 with 4.5 companions available per user.

Organisers can select the companion most suited to their loved one’s needs, picking from profiles that detail experience levels, occupation, and skills like first aid.

Lisa Robinson, CEO of befriending network Companiions, said: ““The last year and a half have been immensely difficult for many people, and lockdown has seen loneliness and anxiety levels soar.

“The enforced separation we endured during the pandemic revealed what a difference simple things, like having someone to chat to, can make. Our research shows four fifths of us are now more conscious of the loneliness of others.

“Companiions is on a post-lockdown mission to end loneliness by bringing easy-to-arrange, trusted, convenient companionship to every community in the UK."