Guest Speaker - Hannah Landray

Frail older people and people with disabilities who choose to live independently can become socially isolated within their community. Wesley's Social Support programs enable people to stay connected to their local communities through socialising and taking part in activities.

The social support programs assist older people, aged 65 years or over, or people with disabilities, who may be at risk of social isolation. Do Care responds to social isolation and assists people to become involved and remain in their community. Volunteers spend regular time with one or more people which may be on a one-to-one or in a group based situation.


Activities include:

• Conversation and companionship
• Walks, local drives, visits to places of interest
• Playing cards and board games
• Gardening, golfing and fishing
• Having a regular meal together
• Ongoing support to all participants.

Pet Pals matches dogs and their owners with older people or adults with a disability who would enjoy a visit from someone with a friendly pet.

Telelink is a program which runs weekly groups of up to ten socially isolated people, who talk on the telephone from the comfort of their own homes. Groups can also be formed for people who speak languages other than English.

Linlithgow is for people living in the City of Banyule, who are over 65 years of age, or have a disability. A range of activities are available for different cultural groups, including a daily three-course lunch, art classes and tai chi all in a friendly and social environment.

Melba Club offers social support programs in the Yarra Valley to our older residents, people with disabilities and carers. A range of activities include volunteer friendly visits, Men’s Shed, Listen to Older Voices radio program and small day group activities, all designed to create opportunities to engage and connect with the local and wider community.