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Whittlesea Seniors Linkup

Establishing a network of volunteer Community Connectors who support socially isolated and lonely seniors to participate in activities that meet their needs and interests.

This project established a network of volunteer Community Connectors who support socially isolated and lonely seniors to participate in activities that meet their needs and interests.

The project also promoted and encouraged age-friendly approaches for community groups.

Commencing with a mapping exercise of activities for seniors in the municipality, the project built a searchable online database of activities and information.

This project involved:

  • conducting an information workshop and two training sessions for Community Connectors
  • regular networking opportunities for connectors and a facility and activity tour to familiarise volunteers with available activities
  • developing a volunteer Community Connectors training package, including a contact report and referral pathway information
  • supporting, via the work of the Community Connectors, more than 18 people to link to a range of activities including golf, Tai Chi, a walking group, a seniors club and walking football.

    A major outcome of this project was bringing to light the many areas that can be improved.

    An important lesson was that simple actions like creating brochures, checking in with people who have stopped attending, and improving communication can make a big difference.

Project Leadership Group:

  • Glen Wall, Whittlesea U3APresident
  • Keryn Hurley, Yarra Plenty Regional Library Community Coordinator
  • Joe Felice, Whittlesea Community Leadership NetworkPresident
  • June De Chalain, Northern Mauritian Seniors Club Vice President
  • Colin Foley, Brotherhood of St Laurence Business Development Manager
  • Odi Gerzina, Positive Ageing Cluster Community Representative
  • Con Constantinou, City of Whittlesea Project Officer
  • Judith Geraghty, City of Whittlesea Team Leader Positive Ageing

Project contact:

Judith Geraghty

Team Leader, Positive Ageing, Aged and Disability

City of Whittlesea

Phone: 03 9407 5917

Email: judith.geraghty@whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Web: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.auExternal Link

Reviewed 10 August 2022