Non-profit service provider, Relationships Australia Canberra & Region, has been awarded the role of lead agency to oversee the Batemans Bay's Headspace service from late 2020.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, Coordinare CEO Dianne Kitcher said Relationships Australia was selected as the lead agency following an open tender process.
"Relationships Australia has proven successful in supporting young people with mental health issues and is the lead agency for the Headspace centre in Wagga Wagga," Ms Kitcher said.
"The organisation has also demonstrated a strong commitment to working in partnership with other services in the area, and is well placed to work with local Aboriginal communities."
Ms Kitcher confirmed the existing Headspace service in Batemans Bay, set up as an interim response to bushfires, will continue to operate until the full Headspace centre was established later this year.
"Young people will continue to be able to access youth friendly, confidential mental health and wellbeing services through the current Headspace service," she said.
"We will work to ensure a smooth transition for all accessing support during this period so young people continue to get the help they need without interruption."
Under the new arrangement with Relationships Australia, outreach services will also be provided to Moruya and Ulladulla, with a mobile office being set up to provide additional outreach services between Ulladulla and Narooma based on community needs and demand.
"The coach will be fitted out with appropriate, sound-proof counselling spaces and will visit other youth services, or even work in conjunction with local schools," Ms Kitcher said.
Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips welcomed the announcement: "Young people across our region have been through a lot recently with the drought, bushfires and now COVID-19, and these experiences can certainly impact our mental health and our ability to get through these tough times."
"We know early intervention is key and that is why I have long advocated for a full Headspace for young people in the Batemans Bay area. I am thrilled to see that one step closer," Ms Phillips said.
Headspace provides mental health, alcohol and other drug, employment, study and physical health services and support to 12-25 year olds. An open day will be held on July 17 from 10am to 4pm at the Community Centre in Batemans Bay.
READ MORE: Headspace offers support for young people