An adult mental health centre is set to operate in Midland Head Health from early 2022. Photo: Sourced.
WA Primary Health Alliance (WPHA) has confirmed St John of God Social Outreach, part of St John of God Health Care, as the lead agency to establish and operate the new Midland Head to Health adult mental health centre.
Expected to open early 2022, the centre will offer free advice, support and, if needed, assessment and treatment for people with stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
The service design has been shaped by strong engagement with people with lived experience such as consumers, family and carers, local health professionals, service providers, local government and the wider community.
The mental health centre for adults will be located close to public transport links and St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals’ Emergency Department, with the site to be revealed on completion of local government approvals.
In a letter released to the media, WPHA confirmed their next step will be to finalise leasing agreements, fit out the building, and recruit a suitably qualified workforce.
The Australian Government Budget 2021 to 2022 committed to further Head to Health adult mental health centres being established nationally.
The expectation is some of these additional centres will be in Western Australia, meaning more communities will benefit from this essential mental health initiative.
WA Primary Health Alliance Chief Executive Officer Learne Durrington assured the local community that they are confident the comprehensive consultation and co-design processes undertaken by St John of God Social Outreach earlier this year and the generous knowledge shared by local stakeholders “will result in a great service for the people of Midland and surrounding communities.”
St John of God Social Outreach Chief Executive Officer Susan Cantwell added that engagement and support received from local service providers, clinicians, advocacy and community groups, consumers and support persons throughout the co-design process has been outstanding.
“This confirmed how much the Midland and surrounding communities will benefit from this new service. As a proud provider of health care services in the area, we are looking forward to opening this important new service.”
Federal Member for Hasluck, Hon Ken Wyatt AM cited that as WA continues to navigate through the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic “we are discovering an increase in the prevalence of mental health issues.”
“Our mental health is so important, and it is just as important to check in on those around you. Often a friendly conversation can make a world of difference, and we want to make sure that those seeking support have access to it,” Mr Wyatt said.
“I welcome the investment from the Morrison Government in providing support for Hasluck residents on this important issue. I look forward seeing the positive difference the St John of God Social Outreach will make to our community.”
This activity has been made possible through funding provided by the Australian Government under the PHN Program.
About Us: WA Primary Health Alliance shapes, strengthens and sustains a health system that works for people. As the operator of WA’s three Primary Health Networks – part of the Australian Government national PHN program – we plan, guide and direct investment towards important primary healthcare services. Our state-wide structure and strong partnerships give us an opportunity to shape a health system fit for the future. By partnering with GPs, allied health professionals, service providers, government and community, we deliver better health, together. For more information, visit www.wapha.org.au
About St John of God Health Care and St John of God Social Outreach: St John of God Health Care (SJGHC) is a leading provider of high-quality health care services in Australia. Established in Western Australia in 1895, we are not-for-profit private health care group and a ministry of the Catholic Church.
We employ more than 15,500 staff across Australia and New Zealand operate 27 facilities comprising more than 3,300 beds in Australia and New Zealand, as well as home nursing, disability services and social outreach programs.