Seniors that were part of a social phone group that was launched in Mandurah just as COVID-19 hit, are now meeting in person.
The Ring Ring Have a Chat Group was born from the Ring Ring Social phone group, and met for the first time on Monday - with catch ups planned for every Monday.
It was organised by charity, Befriend in collaboration with Chorus and funding from WA Primary Health Alliance (WAPHA).
Befriend spokeswoman Charmaine Prinz said seniors were a vulnerable group.
"[They] are at risk of social isolation due to various issues such as declining health and mobility of themselves and their friends and partners, loss of drivers licence, loss of confidence and lack of digital literacy so unable to connect online," she said.
The program was a safe way that seniors could still interact during COVID and it has connected about 40 Mandurah residents.
"A very positive response has been received with many people saying how it had a really positive influence on their lives and mental wellbeing," Ms Prinz said.
"Many have made a new friend and meet up with them regularly."
The Ring Ring Have a Chat Group will continue to meet weekly at Cafe Manhattan in the Erskine Shopping Centre on Mondays from 2.30-3.30pm.
All are welcome.
