A new social connection program launched by Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH) is helping local residents living alone combat loneliness — and for Lakes Entrance’s Colin Stone, 85, it has been a welcome lifeline.
Colin has lived alone since the passing of his wife, Pat, three years ago. While he has a large extended family, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are spread across Perth, Adelaide, Gundagai, Benalla, Tasmania, and Sydney, making visits infrequent.
“I used to be very involved when the children were growing up — school council, committees, meetings every week. Now it’s a quieter life,” Colin said.
“It’s very quiet when you live by yourself. It’s great to have someone coming around… it’s a good thing to do.”
The program, called Cuppa Connections, pairs trained volunteers with GLCH clients for regular home visits focused on companionship. Volunteers visit weekly or fortnightly to share a cup of tea, conversation, and quality time.
For Colin, volunteer David Peters from Lake Bunga has become a kindred spirit.
“The things he’s interested in are the same things I’m interested in — history, geography, archaeology, artworks, books, travel. We’re never at a loose end to know what to talk about,” David said.
Although both are members of the Lakes Entrance Garden Club, it was the GLCH program that brought them together.
“It was a natural progress of dialogue. Colin can talk about anything; we get along very well together. We have a really good camaraderie about the whole thing,” David said.
Colin added with a laugh: “It’s supposed to be an hour… it has been longer, once we get going.”
GLCH volunteer engagement officer Karren Hackling said the program addresses a growing need for social connection, particularly among older residents and people living alone.
“Cuppa Connections is about human connection — not appointments or services,” Karren said.
“For some people, having someone sit down for a cuppa and a chat can make a real difference to their week.”
Visits are informal, guided by shared interests, and can include conversation, card games, or board games. The program is part of GLCH’s broader support for older residents living at home through the Federal Government’s Support at Home program.
GLCH offers a range of volunteer opportunities to suit different interests and time commitments. To learn more about volunteering, contact Karren Hackling
