Northern Sydney joins forces to tackle loneliness The recent NSW Parliament Inquiry into Loneliness revealed that one in three northern Sydney residents feel lonely, and one in six experience severe loneliness, underscoring a serious public health issue. Loneliness isn’t just an emotional issue. It is also tied to poorer health outcomes, ranging from increased risk of chronic disease to reduced overall well-being.
executive team and partners, and a clear theme emerged: using digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) as a way for people to connect based on their interests and needs. Executive Director of Strategy and Office of the Chief Executive at the NSLHD, Simon Radmore said the district will continue to work with partners. “We’re excited to continue working with our partners to turn these ideas into real- life outcomes that positively impact the health and wellbeing of our Northern Sydney community,” he said.
To address the issue, NSLHD has been exploring “social prescribing”, a health care approach that connects people to community-based activities and supports, rather than relying only on medicine or clinical treatment. As part of this effort, the district joined forces with Northern Sydney Health Network, Hornsby
Council, and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) through its Work Integrated Learning Program. Over 10 weeks, four multidisciplinary teams of UNSW students brainstormed and prototyped solutions aimed at reducing social isolation across the community. The students recently presented their ideas to the NSLHD
Work Integrated Learning Program presenters and project team
International Infection Prevention and Control Week The NSLHD infection prevention and control (IPAC) team recently marked International Infection Prevention and Control Week with a series of engaging events across the district’s facilities.
and prevail to stop the spread of infection and create a safer place for all,” she said. “In NSLHD we celebrated the impact of infection prevention and control, and reinforced the essential practices that protect patients, health workers and the public.”
From interactive foyer displays and trivia to roving activities like the ‘Microbe Mission’ and
an IPAC-themed photo competition, the week offered staff a fun way to connect with a global movement dedicated to protecting patients, families, and healthcare workers. NSLHD Director of Infection Control Jo Tallon said it was wonderful to see so many staff getting involved. “This year’s theme for International Infection Prevention Week was Stand UPPP for Infection Prevention—inviting all to unite, protect, prevent
The IPAC team with Executive Director, Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Andrea Taylor (third from right) at Macquarie Hospital
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