Hunters Hill Connect App Launch

News

February 12, 2021

Hunters Hill is piloting a new app designed to help people who may be socially isolated stay connected with their support circle and get assistance when they need it.

Hunter’s Hill Council is working with community organisations and service providers including Sydney Community Services, SGCH, the Anglican Parish of Hunters Hill, Touched by Olivia and Checked In Care to trial the technology.

The organisations are seeking participants to get involved, either to utilise the Hunters Hill Connect app themselves or as a way to find out more and assist friends and family who may benefit from its use.

The app, once downloaded to a smart phone or tablet, notifies people in an approved support circle when the user needs assistance by detecting changes in their daily routine.

If the support circle is unable to contact the user, the app allows designated members to check the user’s last-known location.

The app can also connect people with their support circle through stories and photos; keep users up-to-date with activities and events in the local community; and provide access to social and community services providers for product deliveries and social services.

Robyn Parker is taking part in the trial. She is involved in a Sydney Community Services women’s wellness group and feels the app could benefit other members.

“It’s surprising how many are living alone now,” she said.

The app would be a good tool to keep in touch with these friends.

“It’s a wonderful initiative … definitely needed,” she said.

Deirdre Burns became involved in the trial through the Anglican Parish of Hunters Hill.

“I’m just keen to help others,” she said.

Fellow participant Helen Hogan said the app provided an opportunity to strengthen existing connections and create new ones.

“There are community connections with churches and councils and service organisations and interest groups,” she said.

“But some people don’t belong to any of those. It’s a matter of reaching out to those people too.”

Mayor Ross Williams said Hunter’s Hill Council was very proud to be a partner in bringing the innovative app to life.

“Isolation is becoming an ever-increasing problem in our modern society,” he said.

The app was a way to harness the great sense of community that existed in Hunters Hill.

“Now we are asking all of you, our community, to tap in to your networks and encourage our residents to get involved,” Clr Williams said.

John Perkins, of Touched by Olivia and Checked In Care, said for those with smart devices, the app was another channel to helping people stay connected.

For more information go to: huntershill.nsw.gov.au/connect