- Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers
A new community initiative to help address social isolation experienced by older LGBTI Victorians is about to get underway thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan today announced that Switchboard Victoria will receive a $80,000 grant to better support the needs of LGBTI seniors.
Australian and international evidence highlights significant barriers to 'belonging' for older LGBTI people compared to the general population.
Switchboard Victoria will partner with Transgender Victoria and Val's LGBTI Ageing and Aged Care and other groups over the next two years to inspire organisations to be more inclusive, and to support the safety and wellbeing of LBGTI seniors.
Three organisations are receiving grants to prevent isolation and loneliness in older people, specifically focusing on projects that increase local support, and reach out to culturally diverse and LGBTI seniors.
The Strengthening Seniors Inclusion and Participation Grants are part of the government's approach to improving community-based support for older people who often look to their local community for opportunities to connect.
To find out more about the grants go to Seniors Online www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au
As noted by Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
"Older people tend to look to their local community for opportunities to get involved and we want to make it easier for them to find support that meets their needs."
"These grants are about strengthening community connections to help protect older people from experiencing isolation and loneliness."
As noted by Switchboard Victoria CEO Joe Ball
"For over 28 years Switchboard Victoria has been connecting LGBTI communities and we are excited to be taking this further with the Victorian Government's support."
"We know from what LGBTI seniors tell us and evidence-based research, that meaningful community connection and belonging is crucial for the health, wellbeing and safety of older LGBTI people."
