In the second half of 2022, SGCH was thrilled to re-open the doors of eight of its community centres, following a lengthy suspension of community activities due to the COVID pandemic.
Our spaces – be it community rooms, gardens, community partner-run group activities or workshops – provide customers with the opportunity to reconnect, explore new skills, garden, learn a new language, improve their health and wellbeing, cook together or simply host loved ones in their broader home.
During COVID, several studies found that many Australians struggled with isolation and loneliness. Some of the measures implemented to manage the pandemic, such as isolation periods and lockdowns, had the potential to exacerbate pre-existing risk factors for social isolation and loneliness. For many of our older residents who live alone and have limited mobility, community spaces and activities are a key part of their connection to others, supporting physical and mental health.
Social housing customer Calogera has just finished a seven-week strength and balance program, supported by a North Sydney Council grant, at Cammeray newly renovated community room. She loved the program and hopes the Council will run it again in 2023.
“I enjoyed it a lot. I had a bit of a giggle because my balance is still coming along,” said the customer. “I didn’t have to go too far as it was at the community centre. I loved it when Wednesday came around as it meant I could go for the class.”
She recently also attended a Community Garden Workshop/art class run by Community Greening, where participants used natural materials from the garden to create ornaments.
“We rolled clay and made ornaments for Christmas. I am also looking forward to the Christmas party.”
For customers like Calogera, who has difficulty walking distances, programs like these mean she doesn’t have to go far but still enjoys engaging with other customers and the community.
The Cammeray community centre was reopened in September this year with Federal Member for North Sydney Kylea Tink, MP, North Sydney Deputy Mayor William Bourke and Councillor Shannon Welch present to meet residents and tour the revamped centre.