A HELPING HAND IN A CRISIS
Cancel Loneliness
Unmask the pain behind the smile
Overview
The World Health Organisation has recently declared loneliness and social isolation as global public health priorities.
A national survey [#] found that despite nearly 1 in 3 Australians stating feelings of loneliness, community misconceptions and stigma are preventing people from discussing it. They are cut off from seeking the connections and support they need.
Australians who slide into loneliness have:
- Less engagement in physical activity leads to lower fitness.
- More likely to develop social media and other addictions.
- Twice as likely to develop a chronic disease.
- Nearly five times more at risk of slipping into depression.
Four times more susceptible to social anxiety.
As you see, loneliness is an experience that affects many of us. Some are more vulnerable than others, especially:
- Younger people – 18 to 25.
- Carers who have limited opportunities to interact with others.
- People who are trying to manage on a low income stay at home.
- Those living in rural or remote areas are geographically isolated.
- Living alone limits meaningful relationships where feelings can be discussed.
- Chronic disease may confine people to their house, and they have few visitors.
- Mental health issues can make “normal” social courtesies difficult.
- Language difficulties for migrants.
- Members of the LGBT+ community.
Get in touch with us about how we can assist, or to learn how to participate as an active volunteer within our programs.
Call us, email us or drop in for a visit.
Our Approach
- To challenge the attitudes of people in the community to be kind and consider others.
- Take time to talk to their friends, workmates and neighbours. Simply as making an opportunity to say, “ How are you doing…..really?”
- If they need help, get their agreement to refer them to us. We do not know who they but doing this simple thing can change their lives for the better. They will thank you for it!
- Our trained volunteers will telephone them every week – more often if needed.
- Over time, friendships and trust will be established. Together with them, we will plan some weekly goals and support them throughout their journey.
- Once we understand what motivates them, we will actively facilitate their connection with other community groups or individuals who can help them.
- If they need practical support, we will assist them.
CANCEL LONELINESS: PHASE 2
We are stepping into the second phase of our Cancel Loneliness initiative. This is the community activation phase let by Band of Brothers Qld Inc. that empowers individuals, businesses, and community groups to take simple, meaningful steps to reduce loneliness — together.
Built around four clear actions — Notice, Nudge, Name It, Notify — the campaign encourages people to recognise the signs of loneliness, start kind conversations, and gently connect others to support.
Through our Advocate Program, local businesses and organisations can sign up to actively promote connection and become safe spaces for community care. For those not part of a workplace or group, the campaign invites caring individuals to step up as Community Connectors — people who notice, reach out, and walk alongside others.
Every step in this process leads to a simple but powerful outcome: connecting people who are lonely to a free weekly phone call from Band of Brothers Qld Inc. — a friendly, confidential check-in that reminds them they’re not alone.
The Cancel Loneliness campaign is currently being piloted across the Redcliffe Peninsula in Queensland, thanks to the generous support of the Coopers Foundation. This rollout is the second step in a larger vision to bring the program to other communities across the City of Moreton Bay. And ultimately, to towns and cities across Australia.
The name Cancel Loneliness intentionally echoes “cancel culture”. But instead of cancelling people, we’re cancelling the silence around loneliness. We’re choosing to cancel stigma. Cancel invisibility. Cancel isolation. And replace them with compassion, courage, and conversation.
Together, we can Cancel Loneliness — one moment at a time.
So what was PHASE 1?
During Phase 1 of Cancel Loneliness, we’ve layed the foundations for connection.
The first phase of the Cancel Loneliness campaign focused on recognising the growing issue of social isolation across the Redcliffe Peninsula and laying the groundwork for meaningful action. Band of Brothers Qld Inc. identified the need for a simple yet powerful solution—regular weekly phone calls to individuals experiencing loneliness.
This phase has centred on community listening, campaign planning, and preparing the structure to deliver phone-based social connection. It marked the beginning of a local movement committed to reaching those who feel forgotten, one phone call at a time. With phone calls starting to take place in the middle of 2024.
Simple Ways to Feel More Connected
There are plenty of small, achievable steps you can take to feel more connected and improve your overall wellbeing. You don’t need to spend a lot of money or do anything big – just start with one moment of connection at a time.
Here are some easy ways to get started:
Reach Out to Someone
It might feel hard at first, but sending a quick message, making a phone call, or simply saying hello to a neighbour can go a long way. Chances are, the person you reach out to will appreciate it just as much as you do. A friendly check-in doesn’t have to be deep or lengthy – it just has to be genuine.
Reconnect with Your Community
There are free and welcoming spaces everywhere – your local library, neighbourhood centre, playgroup, or community garden. You could try a weekly coffee morning, school tuckshop, local walking group, or explore a volunteer opportunity. Even online communities based on your interests can be a great way to meet others and build new friendships at your own pace.
Move Your Body, Shift Your Mood
You don’t need a gym membership to feel the benefits of moving your body. A walk around the block, dancing in your lounge room, or stretching in the morning can help lift your mood and clear your mind. Movement, in any form, has been shown to reduce stress and ease feelings of loneliness.
Step Outside, Even Just a Little
Being around others – even if you’re not ready to talk —is a great way to feel less alone. Visit your local markets, take a book to a park, or just go for a stroll. You don’t need to make plans. Sometimes it’s just about being where people are.
Find Comfort in Companionship
Spending time with pets can ease stress and offer companionship. If you don’t have one of your own, consider walking a neighbour’s dog, visiting a local shelter, or helping out with community animal programs.
Remember, it’s the little things that make a big difference.
Whether you’re living on your own, supporting a family on a tight budget, or juggling responsibilities that leave little time for yourself – know that connection is possible, and it can start with just one small action.
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