By Jessica Anstice
A new Headspace outreach program will be implemented in Victoria to boost access to mental health services.
Headspace offers critical support to youths experiencing mental health or drug and alcohol issues but, especially for young people living in rural or remote Victoria, services can be out of reach.
Shadow Minister for Mental Health Emma Kealy announced a Liberal Nationals Government will fund this.
“If elected, we’ll provide $1.14 million in grants over four years for Headspace to provide outreach services to communities in Regional Victoria and Melbourne,” she said.
“These new outreach services will make sure young people can get the help they need, close to home and break down barriers to access, especially in rural areas where there is limited public transport.”
Programs could include social events for young people or regular outreach health services in communities without a permanent headspace location.
“Headspace has had great success in engaging youth with mental health and drug and alcohol problems, but we can do better in Victoria to support our young people,” Ms Kealy said.
“We must make sure all young people can get the mental health support they need – regardless of where they live.”
Local Headspace facilities are located in Narre Warren, Pakenham and Dandenong.
