Spread Christmas cheer

This week British charity Scope released new data highlighting the impact of social isolation on people with disability.

The charity’s research revealed that almost half of working-age disabled people in the UK are chronically isolated, saying they “always or often” feel lonely. These numbers equate to about 3 million people.

While there are no up-to-date comparative findings covering Australia, we are – from our experience – aware that such issues are not solely limited to the UK.

This Christmas we’re asking our wonderful service users to refer one person to Gig Buddies Sydney. By doing so you’ll be playing an active role in helping tackle the affects of social isolation.

Direct that person to our website; point them towards our sign up section (click here for the gig buddies form and here for the volunteer equivalent), or get in touch with us via email (info@gigbuddiessydney.org) and we’ll do the calling.

We’re always looking for new participants and volunteers, and we want people to come and join our Gig Buddies community. When we receive new applications we’re honest in that it may take some time to get everyone paired up (we take into consideration gender and age preferences, along with locality and mutual interests), but in interim we tell everyone they’re welcome to join us at our social events. After all, we’re all about expanding social circles.

On that note, we hope to be in a position to soon tell everyone about our summer gig guide, including plans for our third birthday, and the Cronulla Sharks’ games we’re to attend in 2018.

In related news, a reminder that we’re off to Miranda’s Centenary Park this Sunday (3/12) to mark International Day of Disability.

Appearing alongside our signatory charity partner, Cronulla Sharks, we’ll be informing those in attendance about our plans for the 2018 NRL season.

Starting at 10am and concluding at 1pm, if you’re at a loose end and would like to find out more about our services, feel free to come along and say hello.

Matthew Collins

Gig Buddies Sydney Community Engagement Coordinator

matt@assistcom.org

Would you like more information about Gig Buddies Sydney? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.

Fancy reveling in legendary status? If so, please support us in our cause to get more people out to live events in Sydney. Donations over $2 are tax deductible and all are gratefully received.

Gig Buddies Sydney is an initiative of ACL Disability Services