LLOYD VALENTINE

Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown)—Charlestown Electorate resident and former Newcastle Business Club youth award recipient Lloyd Valentine has launched the "Healthy Change Village" as a one-stop wellness portal. Lloyd told the Newcastle Herald, he believes there is a need for tailor-made online programs for people of all ages, intellectual and physical abilities, and their support networks. While there are many online health and fitness support options, Lloyd sees his Village as providing accessible, professional help across a range of areas, helping to limit confusion. The platform includes a number of Hunter-based qualified health professionals, as well as Paralympians, the Black Dog Institute and That Sugar Movement. The videos are designed to be accessible and go through a strict approval and difficulty-grading process. As Lloyd points out, the difficulties of the last year have meant that there are more vulnerable people than ever who might be going without the support they need. The disruptions of COVID-19 have compounded pre-existing problems for many. I wish Lloyd, his collaborators and the users of his platform all the best as they work to improve physical and mental health outcomes and undergo a healthy change.

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