COFFS Harbour has been named as one of seven new NSW Head to Health sites, part of a joint commitment by the Australian and New South Wales Governments of $45.7 million of new mental health funding over four years.

“People living in and around Coffs Harbour will have access to a free walk-in service that can provide on-the-spot support,” said Monika Wheeler, Chief Executive of Healthy North Coast.

“This will be the second Head to Health site for our region,” she said, referring to the Lismore Head to Health service which opened in March 2022 after the floods.

The Coffs Harbour service will offer free, immediate, short-and-medium-term care for people over eighteen with moderate to severe mental health needs, including adults seeking help in times of crisis.

Emma McBride, the Federal Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and the Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health said, “The Australian Government is working with all states and territories to make mental health support and care more accessible for people wherever they live.

“I’m delighted that agreement has been reached on the locations of the next wave of services in New South Wales.

“These services will make it easier for people in many regions of the state to get the help they need, when they need it.”

State minister for Mental Health and Minister for the North Coast Rose Jackson said, “This investment is just the start of our long-term plan to deliver high-quality mental health support where it is needed most.

“This funding to seven key locations across regional NSW will help fast-track free care without the need for appointments to provide help for those who need it now.”

Ms Wheeler said that Healthy North Coast will be responsible for contracting a suitable local provider to deliver the new service.

“We have worked alongside the Mid North Coast Local Health District to submit the funding proposal and look forward to consulting with other local stakeholders to ensure the service meets the needs of the Coffs community,” she said.

“Head to Health services are known for being welcoming, supportive and non-judgmental environments.”

Ms Wheeler said cost of living pressures following on from the COVID-19 pandemic, floods and bushfires of recent years meant an increasing number of people are needing mental health support.

Even though walk-in locations for Head to Health services are still limited, people living anywhere in the region can call the free Head to Health 1800 595 212 number for mental health advice, information and local referrals.

The phone service operates weekdays from 8:30am to 5pm, except public holidays.

However, it is not a crisis service, and people needing immediate support can contact the Mental Health Access Line at 1800 011 511, Lifeline at 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service at 1300 659 467, or go to their nearest hospital emergency department in case of an emergency.

Head to Health services can be accessed by calling 1800 595 212 or by visiting a nearby location.

Find out more at https://www.headtohealth.gov.au.

By Andrew VIVIAN