By Jamie Salter
The Victorian Government is investing in local, accessible mental health and wellbeing services through new wellbeing hubs to respond to an additional demand due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
There are 23 hubs that are part of a $13.3 million Victorian Government commitment to provide Victorians with easier access to mental health support as they continue to navigate through the impacts of the pandemic.
EACH manager of mental health and family violence Derek Fagan said he was proud to deliver the service in Narre Warren.
“I’ve been in the business for more than 20 years and this has to be the first time where there is real, quality funding following need,” Mr Fagan said.
“There’s a lot of people experiencing anxiety from fear-based information so we will introduce wellbeing strategies to reduce that anxiety.
“There’s more people coming to the surface now and we’re able to respond straight away.”
The hubs are helping to relieve the growing pressure on emergency departments, specialist and general practice services and making seeking mental health support more accessible.
To ensure Victorian’s can access a hub, support is provided through a mix of face-to-face, telehealth, mobile outreach and online settings.
The hubs will work in partnership with existing services such as counselling, headspace and family support services to respond to the growing demand for mental health support across the community – supporting people of all ages and cultures in the City of Casey.
EACH chief executive officer Natalie Sullivan said will provide a much needed ‘go-to’ resource for many people in the community looking for support.
“While there are some mental health services already on the ground, we are seeing increasing demand with many people concerned by rising Covid-19 case numbers,” she said.
“We know through our existing services that some people who previously hadn’t needed access to mental health and wellbeing support are finding that they aren’t coping.
“Many people with existing mental health challenges, including carers, have had their coping strategies stretched to the limits.
“It can be daunting to know where to start when you are in need, so we want to make sure that our service welcomes people and ensures that they are connected with the supports they require.”
Victorian Mental Health Minister James Merlino said the hubs would provide support when people need it the most.
“We’re responding urgently to what Victorians need right now in line with recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, with extra support for families, friends and carers of people who are experiencing mental health concerns.”
The Mental Health and Wellbeing hub is located at 5/66 Victor Cres, Narre Warren.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, phone 1300 375 330 for support.
