
Staying safe, being connected
More about the Neighbourhood Care Network – PDF download
Local Champions
What’s involved?
- Setting up a local neighbourhood network or group. This is a group of around 50 neighbours to stay in contact and help each other.
- Figuring out ways to communicate across the group, then coordinating contact and helping everyone keep track of who needs help and who can help.
- Helping people stay connected and support each other with positive ways to spend time at home while social distancing, self-isolating or in quarantine.
- Staying in touch with the Neighbourhood Care Network Team (NCN Team)
Central Support
Have a Chat
Introduction
Have a chat’ is the way that NCN local networks link up those who need some company with people who have offered to provide it, locally. This may be through regular or one-off phone calls or verandah chats, or any approach that seems appropriate and safe, locally.
Local Network Cooordinators help to match people needing company with people offering company.
When people needing company have more specific, age-related support needs, we have a skilled individual who can really understand an individual’s situation. This conversation will usually be by phone. If the problems are more complex, the ‘Have a chat’ service will link to professional support services through Bellingen Connections Centre.
Why do we need Have a Chat?
In ordinary times social isolation affects approximately 50% of older Australians over the age of 60. The Covid 19 Virus has further added to the risk and burden of social isolation for all Australians.
Purpose
The purpose of ‘Have a Chat’ is to grow social engagement within the Bellingen community, whilst respecting the safety measures of social distancing and isolation.
Research suggests that regular and predictable contact with a person is more important than the actual content and length of the discussion. Just knowing that someone cares and wants to connect goes a long way to reducing the perception of loneliness and being disconnected.
Goals of Have a Chat
I am connected – I am connected to a network of people in my Shire that can support me.
I am valued – There are a network of people in my Shire who care about me and my well being
I have purpose – I am still able to contribute to the Shire by sharing my wisdom and giving my time.
I am safe – In these unprecedented times there is a network in the Shire to help keep me happy healthy and safe
To enroll, simply call 6655 1121 and select option 3
