City of Whittlesea has welcomed news of funding from the Victorian Government aimed at enhancing mental health and wellbeing.
The funding, as part of a broader statewide initiative, will help establish a Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) in the municipality.
SIAG will be led by community members and will focus on understanding local needs and exploring ways to improve social connections and inclusivity.
As one of five councils selected in the second phase of the SIAG roll-out, the initiative is particularly important for City of Whittlesea, as a Council survey recently revealed that more than 30 per cent of adults and over 50 per cent of young people feel lonely.
Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the funding would help establish the important group.
“This injection of funding is of the utmost importance at the grass roots level. A local Social Inclusion Action Group will allow our community to take the lead in terms of what will work locally to improve social connections and mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
“These groups are built by the community, for the community. Local people are best placed to understand the unique needs of the community and drive effective social connection and participation.”
City of Whittlesea will soon open an expression of interest process to invite community members to join the SIAG, ensuring that the group reflects the diversity of the community.
The Council will also be facilitating two Australian Bush Comfort and Confidence Workshops, an interactive and fun session to help locals enjoy the outdoors. The free two hour session will equip attendees with the skills to step out into the bush within the City of Whittlesea and beyond. The workshops will be held on September 15 and November 17.
For more information, visit www.whittlesea.vic.go.au.
