Loneliness and isolation impact young people’s health, wellbeing, friendships and education and rates have worsened as they navigate rapid changes in technology and social and global pressures.

According to our new Belonging in Geelong: A Social Inclusion Needs Analysis, 25 per cent of residents experience loneliness, jumping to 39 per cent for LGBTQIA+ residents, 60 per cent of young people, 61 per cent of people with long-term disability and 77 per cent of residents in mental health distress.

The needs analysis also found that people living in Corio, Norlane, North Shore and new growth areas like Armstrong Creek feel more isolated than residents in other suburbs.

Through five workshops during May and June, the Youth Social Connection Project will explore what helps young people feel like they belong, what gets in the way and what ideas can make a real difference.

It’s an opportunity for young people to co-design and influence the decisions and solutions that affect them, while making new friends and growing their skills along the way.

The feedback will be used to guide our services, advocate for funding and create partnerships with health, wellbeing and social inclusion organisations.

We’ll provide food, breaks, time to socialise and support to travel to workshops for free. Expressions of interest can be made online, on our Have Your Say platform, until Thursday 30 April.

Funding for this youth-led project is from the Geelong Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG), made up of passionate community members who have come together to tackle high rates of loneliness and social isolation in our region. The SIAG is facilitated by the City of Greater Geelong with funding from the Victorian State Government.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

Youth Social Connection Project members will help to improve a sense of belonging in the region.

We know that financial insecurity, relationship breakdowns, bullying, grief and moving are just some of the issues that contribute to loneliness in young people and that they can face several barriers at once.

If you’ve ever felt lonely or isolated, or have supported someone who has, we want to hear from you.

You can use your experiences to help young people feel more connected, supported and included.

Junior Mayor Vignesh Ram

As a young person in Geelong, I know how important it can be to feel like you belong.

I believe this project will give young people a real chance to share their experiences and be part of ideas that can make our community more inclusive and connected.

It truly is a great opportunity to have your voice heard and make a genuine impact!