Health and mental health

The Salvation Army submitted a response to the NSW Standing Committee on Social Issues’ Inquiry into the Prevalence, causes and impacts of loneliness in New South Wales.

The Salvation Army provides ministry and pastoral supports and spaces for community connection through our Corps, and we are one of the largest providers of social services across NSW and Australia. Loneliness and social isolation are prevalent issues for those we work alongside.

The Salvation Army’s submission focuses on:

• Disadvantage as both a driver, and a consequence of, loneliness and social isolation;
• The diverse needs of communities and community groups across NSW; and
• The value of meaningful social connection, community engagement and belonging.

This submission recommends that addressing loneliness and social isolation in NSW requires: 

• A collaborative and coordinated approach across government departments, service sectors and community groups;
• Community-led solutions that address the diverse needs of local communities;
• Solutions that address both the drivers and consequences of disadvantage; and
• Increased investment in the community and social services sector to increase their ability to respond to loneliness and deliver integrated support.