Older people and unpaid carers across the Northern Rivers will benefit from a new State Government-funded program designed to combat social isolation and improve access to support services.

The Northern Rivers Community Gateway has been selected as one of just four organisations across regional NSW to deliver the new Connecting Seniors and Carers Program, a $3.6 million pilot running over three years.

The program will operate across the Ballina, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed local government areas, helping older people and their carers connect with community groups, support services and wellbeing programs.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said social isolation remained a significant issue for many older residents in regional communities.

“It is very easy for older people to slip into loneliness through being retired, or ill health, or losing a partner, or through the demands of being a carer,” Ms Saffin said.

“Social isolation is a real concern in regional areas and is associated with risks to health and mental health.

“I congratulate The Northern Rivers Community Gateway, who do brilliant work to maintain social connectedness and cohesion and fly under the radar, for being selected to deliver this pilot program in our region.”

The new initiative expands on the existing Connecting Seniors Grants Program and will provide broader support for both seniors and the unpaid carers who help them remain independent.

Participants will be able to access information and advice, needs assessments, outreach support, short-term case planning and referrals to services including My Aged Care, Carer Gateway and the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Additional support may include assistance with financial wellbeing, legal matters, family and relationship issues, and community participation.

Building on decades of local experience

Northern Rivers Community Gateway has more than 50 years of experience delivering community services across the region and has operated the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme for more than three decades.

Chief Executive Officer Jenni Beetson-Mortimer said the funding would help strengthen support for older people and carers across the Northern Rivers.

“The Connecting Seniors and Carers funding will enable Community Gateway to support seniors and their carers across six local government areas to stay connected, informed and independent,” she said.

“By strengthening community participation, improving access to information and services, and building confidence in navigating service systems, we can help older people remain active and engaged in their communities.”

NSW Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said older people and carers often faced barriers when trying to access support.

“That’s why the Minns Labor Government is delivering the Connecting Seniors and Carers Program designed to provide simpler and clearer pathways to support for those who need it most,” she said.

The Northern Rivers Community Gateway was selected through a competitive tender process that assessed organisations’ experience and ability to deliver the new service model.

The pilot is part of the NSW Government’s broader strategy to support healthy ageing, community participation and improved wellbeing for older residents and carers.

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Northern Rivers Community Gateway has been selected to deliver a new three-year pilot program aimed at reducing social isolation among seniors and carers across the Northern Rivers.