Boost to projects tackling loneliness, isolation

GRANTS from a new Social Inclusion Ballarat Fund have been awarded to 14 initiatives aiming to tackle loneliness and social isolation.

Ranging from $5,000 to $23,240, they were awarded by the City of Ballarat to projects identified for their potential to build connection, inclusion and belonging.

One of the grant recipients, Left Write Hook, a boxing, creative writing and storytelling initiative, will expand access to its program.

Founder Dr Donna Lyon said the funding will support a pilot program for young victim-survivors of sexual assault, providing trauma-informed, creative and community-based recovery pathways.

“Working alongside Ballarat CASA, we are proud to bring this initiative to the local community and create a safe space where young people can write, move, connect and begin to reclaim their power,” Dr Lyon said.

Other recipients are Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, BRMC’s Yarning Garden, The Art Club Hub, Ballarat Masters Badminton Club, Ballarat North Neighbourhood House, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bigger Hearts Dementia Alliance Ballarat, Deaf Victoria, International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance, Nuer Cultural Community, Switchboard Victoria and VRI Delacombe Cricket Club.

Ballarat is one of 10 local government areas in Victoria to establish a Social Inclusion Action Group.

The group is made up of residents with lived experience of isolation, and connections to communities most at risk of loneliness.

The group assessed applications, selecting successful initiatives to ensure funding decisions included real insight into the barriers people face when seeking social inclusion.

“It’s encouraging to see so many meaningful and well-designed initiatives supported through the Social Inclusion Ballarat Fund,” said City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves.

“Each project will encourage opportunities for people in Ballarat to connect, build relationships and feel a sense of belonging, leading to positive ripple effects for the wellbeing of those experiencing isolation.”

Social Inclusion Ballarat uses funding from the Victorian government.