New opportunities will be provided to help isolated country people connect and build positive relationships in the Limestone Coast through ac.care’s Community Connections program.

Program manager Sue Watt said it was estimated one in 10 people experienced social isolation.

“That figure is likely to have grown significantly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Watt said.

“It is well-known social isolation has a negative impact on people’s mental and physical health, along with their ability to participate in the community.

“We want to help connect the disconnected by providing opportunities to bring people together in positive ways.”

Community Connections will be delivered by ac.care as a community partner in the Limestone Coast, Riverland and Murraylands, replacing the former Home and Community Care Program.

The program involves short-term support for up to 12 weeks and help connecting people with longer-term support where required.

Support may include facilitating opportunities for people to become involved in community activities, find new support groups, meet neighbours or benefit from extra help at home.

South Australians aged 18 to 64 who are not eligible for Federal Government programs such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and My Aged Care may qualify for the program.

Priority will be provided to Aboriginal people aged 18 to 49, people from linguistically diverse cultures, unpaid carers, individuals who are financially disadvantaged and those living in disadvantaged locations and communities.

Call ac.care on 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) to find out more or visit accare.org.au.