This program is innovative, creative and fun and provides cognitive, social, and physical benefits. Each session includes individual and shared model building, and reflection on important themes. The LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® program enhances:
- Memory
- problem-solving
- emotional wellbeing
- fine motor skills.
It boosts self-esteem, reduces isolation, and fosters strong social bonds and a sense of community, contributing to overall well-being.
Centre Manager, Tracey Sweetman, said she was previously involved with Lego Club in Schools in this area, and saw the very real results of building confidence in children and reducing bullying in the playground as a result. She had also witnessed Lego Serious Play in the workplace, where it is used to build ideas and explore concepts, and it improved team communication. So when Liz walked through our door and said “ I have a program that uses Lego to connect people and it reduces loneliness and improves mental health” she was completely sold!
Companions Connect Volunteer, and Board President, Christina Vine-Hall speaks about why we were interested in running this program…
“In our delivery of services to our local community, we are aware of many people who live alone, have minimum contact with family and friends and feel isolation. Our community Centre exists to help and support such people. This project brings together people and uses a tool like lego to help people to connect, and feel part of something bigger than themselves. It ultimately improves their health and wellbeing.
Not only has the program supported seniors and other in our community, both men and women, but also volunteers. Volunteers have been helping by recording data and observations so we can measure the impacts of the program, and report on outcomes. Launched in October 2024, we called it “Companions Connect: Building Better Health Brick by Brick”
Liz Phillips from Playful Insight facilitates the program each month.
I have been a certified Lego Serious Play practitioner since 2017. I had practiced this methodology during my tenure at Westpac Banking Corporation with a wide variety of teams. I’ve since built a strong relationship with practitioners in USA who are adopting the Lego Serious Play practice in their work with seniors, individuals & staff in aged care homes, and in particular, those with early onset Dementia. There is significant evidence of the positive impact on personal wellbeing, and this is an area of focus I wish to pursue in Australia.
In Drummoyne, the program was received by the community with great curiosity and enthusiasm, and we kicked off our first session in November and have been meeting monthly ever since.”
Each month has a topic. They are designed to stimulate cognitive function, emotional expression, social interaction and a sense of community. Topics we are exploring include:
- Life Milestones – reflecting on their journey
- Legacy & wisdom – where they have made an impact
- Who are my heroes – those who inspire me
- Symbols of gratitude – who or what gave my life deeper meaning
- A Place I Call Home – where is ‘home’
- My favourite holiday – were I could be myself
- A skill or Hobby I’m most proud of – which I could pass on
- Favourite childhood memory – which brings joy
- A challenge I overcame – which I used my resilience
- My vision for the future – what I hope for
“Delivering this program is such a delight. We have seen and heard some wonderful storytelling and reflections from participants. I have watched their confidence grow over the course of the program – enjoying the activity which many have witnessed their own children and grandchildren enjoy but never really something they have done themselves. Lego helps them connect with their own personal stories which then helps them in turn connect with others through that sharing. This has led to bonding and greater friendships”.
“Drummoyne Community Centre provides this wonderful venue and transport to help participants to attend. We always have some refreshments together and encourage social interaction.” It’s joy for the soul!
Comments from program participant
When asked why they are participating, and what they think about ‘happiness’, these were some of our responses:
“I’ve been ill for the past 16 months, and I’ve moved house, and I’ve been unable to be involved in many things. My daughter told me about this program, and thought it would be a fun way to meet new people and get active again” – JB
“ Happiness begins at home, and often depends on good health. Can we deal with all the complexities of life as we get older? We will all need the ability to learn new things and keep up with new technology” BI & CX
“Our world is changing all the time. People are feeling displaced and disorientated – not just older people but young people too. We will need to improve tolerance between the generations to all lead a happy life. Communication is critical. Coming to this program at a local community centre will assist with this.” CB & JB
“ A happy life is a choice. Some people run towards it and other run away. Always look for opportunities to participate” KK
Drummoyne Community Centre acknowledges grant funding for this program from Australia Post and City of Canada Bay Council.
From our sponsor:
“ City of Canada Bay Council is delighted to be able to support the Drummoyne Community Centre to deliver the Companions Connect Program. We know that social isolation and disconnection is an issue for many people in our community. Programs such as Companions Connect provide an opportunity for local people to come together regardless of their circumstances, to meet others in their community. We would like to acknowledge the work of Drummoyne Community Centre in initiating this program for our community. We look forward to continuing our work with them to ensure our community is supported in a variety of ways.”