Welcome to our third edition of the Clearinghouse Connector profiling information resources available to you through our Clearinghouse.

This issue focuses on social connectedness.

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About this issue

Social connectedness, also referred to as social inclusion, refers to the extent to which people feel connected to their communities and also the strength within these communities.

In this issue of the Clearinghouse Connector, we focus on social connectedness as a determinant of mental health and wellbeing.

Information resources

For a simple introduction to the principles of social inclusion and social capital, you can’t go past this research summary by VicHealth. It includes evidence of how social connectedness can influence mental health and wellbeing. Download their resource here.

How are healthy communities created? The Department for Victorian Communities have developed a framework that focuses on the types of networks that are important to communities. Also included is evidence of the benefits of each of these networks. Read more here.

Want to measure or evaluate levels of social capital in your community? The Australian Bureau of Statistics has developed a framework for statistics and indicators.

To understand how and why women experience and are affected by social isolation access the referenced text version of the Women and Social Connectedness banner. Produced by Women’s Health Goulburn North East, it focuses on gender influences. It is also available in a display version with pictures that can be borrowed from the WHV Clearinghouse.

The Evidence-Based Mental Health Promotion Resource recognises social connectedness as one of the determinants of mental health. To get an idea of which kinds of heath promotion interventions are effective at increasing social inclusion, access the report here.

Latest additions in the Clearinghouse

The Proceedings from the ‘Women’s Health Matters: From Policy to Practice’ Statewide Summit are now available. It contains most of the presentations that were given on the day, from renowned speakers such as Dorothy Broom, Helen Keleher and Fran Baum.

The 2006 Australian Census of Women in Leadership provides a clear picture of the status of women in the workplace, and comparisons with the United Kingdom and New Zealand.

The second stage of the Victorian Women’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy, 2006-2010 has just been released by the Department of Human Services.

Turning a New Leaf: Women, Tobacco and the Future addresses research, policy and program development on tobacco control from a gendered perspective. It also provides a snapshot of women’s use of tobacco, the health effects specific to women, and the role women play in the production and promotion of tobacco.

In the lead up to the November 25 State election, the Victorian Council of Social Service has put out a call to political parties. Building a Strong and Fair Community encourages the development of social policies that enable all Victorians to benefit from and participate in community life.

Women's Health Victoria's Clearinghouse has a wealth of information on gender in health in various forms.

Our experienced health and information professionals can assist you to access this information.

To contact the clearinghouse email your request to clearinghouse@whv.org.au or phone 03 9662 3755.

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