Community Connections: Connecting Through Community

"Social Connections mean better quality of life"

The Department of Human Services (DHS) have launched Community Connections, a new program aiming to improve the wellbeing of South Australians who are not eligible for Federal funding schemes. It runs over 12-weeks, giving participants choice over their goals and working with Community Partners to increase their independence in the home and in their community.

Depending on the goals the participant sets, support through the Community Connections program can involve getting some extra help around the home, engaging with community groups of interest, or even meeting people in their area. This can lead to increased wellbeing and overall quality of life.
 

Am I eligible?

The program is suited for people:

- Aged 18-64 (18-49 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples);

- Who are looking for short term support to help gain independence and/or get involved in their community;

- Who are not able to access Federal funding schemes such as the NDIS or MyAge Care
 

Priority is given to people who are:

- Unpaid carers

- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

- People from culturally diverse and emerging communities

- People of financial and socio-economical disadvantage
 

The Community Connections program also encompasses unpaid carers who may otherwise not get the opportunity to experience activities beyond their home. For them, the Community Connections program may involve receiving support to connect with community groups to increase social inclusion.
 

Where do I start?

The first step is contacting a Regional Coordinating Partner, who look after shaping the program for the participant. You can find contact information here >> https://dhs.sa.gov.au/services/community-services/community-connections/community-connections-partners.

If you would like to find out more about the Community Connections Program and the organisations involved with delivering the supports, feel free to read about it on the DHS’ website here >> https://dhs.sa.gov.au/services/community-services/community-connections