Welcome to the Uniting Communities Overcoming Loneliness monthly e-news. We’ll keep you up to date with the latest news about loneliness initiatives, research, innovative case studies and data.
If you have a story to share about how your work or organisation is overcoming loneliness, please contact us at advocacy@unitingcommunities.org
South Australia
Sparking in New Regions
The Spark team has been busy organising the roll out of Spark: Igniting Human Connection, in Murray Bridge and Alexandrina regions.
Collaborating with the teams from Alexandrina Council, Skylight Mental Health, Murray Bridge Community Centre, Rural City of Murray Bridge and Anglican Community Care, they are beginning important conversations about loneliness and how we can strengthen connection and belonging within these communities.
If you would like to join the award winning Sparkie team of volunteers, get in touch
Creating Connection Through Chat Seats
Campbelltown City Council’s Chat Seats program offers a simple but meaningful way for community members to connect.
Running every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11am to 1pm at the Campbelltown Public Library, the initiative invites residents to stop for a conversation with one of the program’s volunteer listeners.
Designed to help reduce social isolation, Chat Seats provides a welcoming space for people to meet someone new, share a story, or enjoy a friendly chat—no bookings required.
Just look for the banner outside the library lounge and drop in.
Become a Volunteer Visitor
COTA SA is looking for volunteers to take part in the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, offering companionship to older people who may be feeling lonely or isolated.
Volunteers are matched based on interests and location, and just an hour a week or fortnight can make a meaningful difference.
No special experience is needed—just empathy, reliability and a willingness to connect. COTA SA provides training, support and fuel reimbursements.
To get involved, visit the COTA Visitors page, complete a volunteer application, or contact COTA SA on 08 8232 0422 or cvs@cotasa.org.au.
Australia
A Budget Response to Loneliness
Ending Loneliness Together has submitted their 2026–27 Pre‑Budget Submission, outlining evidence‑informed investments to strengthen social connection and reduce loneliness across Australia.
Drawing on national research, lived experience, and sector insights, the submission advocates for practical, scalable actions to build a more socially connected nation.
International
Translating Evidence into Practice: Co‑Producing Solutions to Perinatal Loneliness (UK)
A recent webinar explored how research, lived experience, and genuine collaboration can strengthen support for people experiencing perinatal loneliness.
The session highlighted why co‑production matters, how it works in practice, and the impact it can have on shaping more responsive policy and services.
Led by Dr Ruth Naughton‑Doe (University of York) and Amy Chidley (Lived Experience Facilitator/Advisor), the discussion offered practical insights into the realities of perinatal loneliness and approaches organisations can use to embed co‑designed methods in their work.
Sign up and watch now
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