Social Isolation and Loneliness Micro-credential

What is social isolation and loneliness?

Although related, social isolation and loneliness are distinct concepts. Social isolation refers to an objectively measurable absence of meaningful social ties and limited interaction with family, friends or community members. Experiences of social isolation can be influenced by factors such as geographic distance, lack of transportation and health issues; particularly in rural areas and these conditions can hinder social engagement and exacerbate feelings of disconnection.

Loneliness, on the other hand, is more subjective– loneliness is an often-distressing feeling that arises when a person experiences a discrepancy between their desired and their actual social relationships. Loneliness is often associated with sadness, frustration and demotivation.

Social isolation and loneliness do not always occur simultaneously - it is possible for a person with numerous social connections to feel lonely, just as it is possible for someone with a small number of social connections to feel satisfied and supported.

Both loneliness and social isolation can disrupt communities, jeopardising not just individual well-being but broader social cohesion.

About the SIL Micro-credential

In partnership with TAFE Queensland, we have developed a micro-credential designed to support volunteers and frontline workers within Queensland communities to identify and respond to social isolation and loneliness.

The “Building connections: preventing and addressing social isolation and loneliness in our Queensland communities” micro-credential was developed by TAFE Queensland in close consultation with industry stakeholders, subject matter experts and people with lived experience.

Course content

Understanding social isolation and loneliness
Prevalence, impact and protective factors
Techniques for identifying social isolation and loneliness
Approaches to support connection
Reflective practice and self-care

Course format

Self-directed online: Approximately 4-5 hours, accessible anytime via TAFE Queensland’s online platform.

Online facilitated: Approximately 3 hours—a modified, condensed version of the self-directed course, which may be undertaken concurrently with the self-directed online module, or as a refresher.

Face-to-face: Approximately 6-7hours, designed for those, learners for whom face-to-face engagement may be preferred, for example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally diverse groups, people living in remote areas and individuals with accessibility needs.