Funding boost for youth mental health services

More young people in the Griffith area will be supported through a funding boost of around $440,000 over three years for headspace Griffith.

The funding is part of the recent announcement from the Australian Government and is part of its headspace Demand Management and Enhancement Program.

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) CEO Melissa Neal said a successful grant application from MPHN to secure the funding will help reduce wait times for young people seeking mental health supports from headspace Griffith.

“Events such as drought and now the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging for young people to navigate and it’s critical for them to be able to access mental health services and supports as quickly as possible,” Ms Neal said.

“In fact, there has been an increase in demand for headspace services as a result and this grant will specifically address reducing wait times for people to access these vital supports.”

headspace Griffith Manager Sharron Dean said the boost to funding was welcome news.

“Young people in the region need a place where they can feel safe and comfortable to seek the support they need, and this additional funding will help us see more people and provide the supports they need to help them through these challenging times,” Ms Dean said.

Federal Member for Farrer, The Hon. Sussan Ley MP said the funding was part of the Coalition Government’s investment of $24.2 million nationally to reduce wait times for young people seeking headspace appointments.

“headspace plays a critical role in our communities supporting mental health and wellbeing in young people, and with the COVID-19 pandemic and drought impacts being felt across the region, this funding will provide much needed support,” Ms Ley said.

If you need help – Lifeline: 13 11 14, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, ehealthspace: 1800 650 890 or visit headspace.org.au/eheadspace/