2 March 2022
The Greens have today challenged the major parties to prioritise the development of a state-wide Loneliness Action Plan and the creation of a Ministry for Loneliness – a national first.
“Loneliness is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time. We need a state-wide strategy to address social isolation and loneliness that includes adequate funding for social infrastructure and services, like healthcare, education, justice reinvestment, housing and transport,” SA Greens MLC, Robert Simms said.
“Since the onset of the pandemic, levels of life satisfaction have declined. Now, more than ever is the time for government to be investing all they can in the mental well-being of its citizens and create a dedicated Ministry for Loneliness.
“This is not a new concept. In 2016 the UK set up a Commission on Loneliness, followed by the appointment of its first Minister for Loneliness in 2018 to help develop cross-portfolio policy responses.
“With the pandemic well into its third year, now is the time to build a community that nurtures mental wellbeing by promoting participation, connection and inclusion, and minimises loneliness and isolation – and I challenge both major parties to join with the Greens to make this a reality,” Mr Simms concluded.
Mr Simms will speak on the Greens’ push for a Loneliness Action Plan at the Uniting Communities Election Forum this morning.