Championing gender equity in sport
It was fantastic to join 150 community members , 7 local sports clubs and members of Merri-bek Council in Fawkner on Sunday 3 March to celebrate International Women ’ s Day ( IWD ) and the participation of women , girls and gender diverse people in sport .
Mental health boost for people 65 +
The event gave people of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to try new sports and activities led by the clubs , meet others and enjoy a free halal BBQ .
Participating in sport has great benefits for physical , mental and social health , however participation of women , girls and gender-diverse people remains lower than men . Barriers can include fear of being judged , unwelcoming environments , lack of confidence and cultural unfamiliarity .
Merri Health is working with Merri-bek City Council to help clubs and leisure centres become more inclusive , safe and welcoming through a new , free local initiative Healthy Sports Club . We ’ re also supporting community members and leaders to encourage participation – with great feedback .
On IWD and everyday Merri Health is committed to promoting gender equity , challenging inequality , calling out bias , questioning stereotypes and helping to forge an inclusive world .
Nerissa O ’ Keefe , Team Leader , SCOA with counselling client and SCOA client , Bernie .
Local people aged 65 + are set to benefit from ongoing specialised mental health support thanks to additional funding for our Stepped Care for Older Adults ( SCOA ) program .
SCOA provides free , tailored mental health support for those with mild to moderate mental illness , and / or who are at risk of social isolation and loneliness .
The program has had great success in the four years it has been running including :
80 % of clients reported reduced loneliness
128 clients supported
increased access for clients with mobility and transport access through home visits
SCOA has been extended for another year thanks to our funding partner North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network .
If you need a little extra support , or know someone who does :
Local girls in Fawkner learn how to play lawn balls .
Find out how your sports club or recreational facility can get involved in Healthy Sports Clubs . call 1300 637 744 , or
email SteppedCare @ merrihealth . org . au , or
visit our website
for more information .
MerriNews March - April 2024 | 3 .