Group programs: embrace community with support that fits YOU

When people are socially connected, they are more likely to make healthy choices and to have better mental and physical health.

In 2023, Australia’s first State of the Nation Report into Social Connection revealed that nearly one in three adults say they are lonely, while one in six report severe loneliness; putting them at a higher risk of lower workplace productivity, poor physical and mental health and chronic disease.

In fact nearly 1 in 2 Australians believe people would feel less lonely if they just knew more people.

Group social and recreational activities play an important role in promoting social connectedness, often through community engagement, meeting new people, or learning skills.

But what do we do when we become disconnected? And what supports are available for those that are?

Through its own group programs, selectability’s proven approach has been delivering practical outcomes for regional Queenslanders living with mental illness for many years.

Member-led recovery through our clubhouse program

selectability’s clubhouse program complements clinical services by providing a recovery option, that puts members in control of their own wellbeing.

Clubhouse members are encouraged to participate in activities based on their own interests.

This can include:

• Planning, preparing and cooking meals Employees and members work together to plan and prepare nutritious healthy meals each day and for a small donation members can enjoy the meals together.
• Painting and sewing classes – a hands-on approach that inspires expression through creativity. The finished product is regularly displayed throughout the building or entered into local competitions.
• Health and fitness activities like yoga and walking are well attended across many clubhouse programs.
• Gardening – a popular group that improves wellbeing through consistent responsibility; a long-term commitment with positive results.
• Community outings – excursions to local facilities such as museums or markets, or recreational activities that encourage movement and socialisation with the general public.

Across our wide footprint, local teams work with recipeient to develop tailored programs that suit a range of interests and needs.

And the results speak for themselves Chief Operating Officer, Aaron Farrell said internal data showed that engagement in Clubhouse programs and activities had led to a reduction in recipient hospital presentations and re-admissions.

“Engagement we have seen in Clubhouse program activities has led to a 65-70 per cent reduction in member hospital presentations relating to mental wellbeing,” Aaron said.

“We have also seen 40 per cent of Clubhouse recipients go on to to volunteer in the community, secure employment or start a training program.

“The success of the program has led to a significant increase in engagement in the last year alone, to the point where we are struggling to keep up with demand.”

Beyond statistics, engagement in group programs has given consumers the ability to develop strong connections socially.

It can be difficult to promote positive wellbeing without a strong connection to your community and friends. Group programs like selectability’s clubhouses provide a proven recovery option for those in need of maintaining a healthy social lifestyle.

The growing popularity of group support programs has seen hundreds of regional Queenslanders access the popular Clubhouse program, currently running across the following regions:

• Ingham
• Palm Island
• Townsville
• Charters Towers
• Bowen
• Mackay
• Mount Isa
• Moranbah
• Longreach

And this is set to grow over the coming months! Keep an eye out for new programs launching soon!

We have a range of packages available for NDIS recipients, and we also have other funding options for those who are not on the NDIS. 

Interested in finding out more? Get in touch with the team today.