Brimbank community members can now access a new mental health service via cohealth.
Delivered in partnership with Clarity Health Care and the University of Melbourne’s Department of Psychiatry, jointly funded by the state and federal governments and stemming from the reforms recommended by the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, the Brimbank hub is helping people in Brimbank access immediate and free mental health and wellbeing support locally.
No Medicare card or referral is required to access the services and no one will be turned away.
cohealth acting chief executive Christopher Turner said the service aims to assist those who need more support than their GP can provide but do not require hospital care.
“Through this service, people in Brimbank will be able to access mental health treatment and support close to home, their jobs and their families so that they get the care they need before their problems get worse,” he said.
“The service aims to reach the ‘missing middle’.”
Client calls will first be answered by a lived experience worker or someone who has experienced mental ill-health themselves, who will start the conversation before providing information, advice and referrals tailored to the individual’s situation.
cohealth peer excellence coach David Pedlar said the service facilitates client choice and control by tailoring supports to the individual
“Having a peer worker was the most significant factor in my own recovery because I felt there was someone walking alongside me who was empathic, understanding and genuinely interested in my wellbeing,” he said.
“I want people to know there is hope.
“With the right clinical, community and peer supports, you can achieve a full and complete recovery.”
Details: 9448 5522 from 8am to 6pm
Matthew Sims
