An initiative to combat social isolation among the city’s elderly population caused by the COVID-19 pandemic was served up today.

NovaCare’s Scone Time encourages older community members, their carers, companions and family members to re-connect over morning tea, with the first event hosted in Merewether on Monday 28 February.

Thirty residents came together for the unique social function funded under City of Newcastle’s expanded Community and Economic Resilience Package, which aims to support vulnerable communities through the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.

NovaCare chief executive officer Joseph McCarthy said council’s support would allow the program to be rolled out across a number of locations in Newcastle, with up to 20 events this year. 

“COVID-19 has caused social isolation among older people, some of whom are now feeling lonely and hesitant to re-enter activities,” he explained.

“City of Newcastle’s support will enable us to provide social re-connection to local seniors in a supported environment where they can share homemade scones, their thoughts and feelings, among great company.”

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said initiatives like Scone Time were so important as people continue to feel the impact of COVID-19 and look towards recovering from the pandemic.  

“The past two years have presented challenges for everyone, but these are heightened among our elderly population,” she stated.

“Providing seniors with safe and supported opportunities to seek meaningful social connection will improve the wellbeing of our community.”

City of Newcastle director strategy and engagement Kathleen Hyland said continued support of the community would benefit the city’s most vulnerable residents. 

“When the pandemic was declared in 2020, we moved quickly to deliver social, economic and well-being outcomes that would support our community,” she added.

“As the effects of COVID-19 continued to impact our community with social and economic disruption, we extended our $5.5 million community and economic resilience package to provide additional support with a targeted program.

“That included assistance for local charities and the most vulnerable in our community.”

The free events are open to anyone over the age of 65, their carers and family members.

Bookings can be made by contacting NovaCare.  

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