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May
2023
A ground‐breaking new program combatting loneliness and social isolation in the Port Macquarie‐Hastings region is just what the doctor ordered.
Funded by Healthy North Coast, a local not‐for‐profit organisation delivering the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network Program, the ‘Healthy Me Healthy Community’ initiative aims to support, encourage, and empower locals to rediscover their passions and find new social outlets to boost their mental health and wellbeing.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive, Monika Wheeler, said the free 15‐week program was based on a concept called ‘social prescribing’ – a global movement which takes a non‐clinical approach to combatting the mental and physical effects of loneliness and poor ‘social health’, two factors which can be a major contributor to chronic illness.
‘Increasing social opportunities and purposeful activities is more important than ever after COVID‐19 measures, such as lockdowns and physical isolation, which impacted people’s ability to connect with others, and in turn, their overall wellbeing,’ Ms Wheeler said.
Feros Care is delivering the pilot program, set to roll out over the next 12 months with a goal of supporting 300 participants with tailored social and group activities until June 2024.
Feros Care Head of Fundraising and Supporter Relationships, Jo Winwood, said the program takes a holistic view of people’s health and wellbeing by offering meaningful ‘social prescriptions’ like volunteering, social groups, arts, cultural events and exercise to help people feel connected and a sense of belonging.
‘We address the root cause of ill health caused by poor social connections, rather than treating the symptoms,’ Ms Winwood said.
‘This helps people understand their individual social needs and connect with the things that matter to them, to support their return to good health,’ she said.
Recently, Mayo Private Hospital referred Jeff, 70, to the Healthy Me Healthy Community program to help him improve his social connections and give him more purpose during retirement.
During time as an electrical trades TAFE teacher, Jeff gained extensive experience teaching woodwork. The ‘Healthy Me Healthy Community’ Wellbeing Coach secured a volunteer position for Jeff in the local Community College’s workshop.
‘Spending time with people energises me and the program has given me a purpose. I’m doing 2 days a week, which is enough for the time being. It’s great that I can dictate my own times and work the hours that suit me best,’ said Jeff.
‘It’s very early days of course, but I’m feeling very positive, and the world is my oyster,’ Jeff said.
Ms Wheeler urged community members seeking to boost their mental health and wellbeing to speak with their GP or visit feroscare.com.au/healthyme to learn more about the Healthy Me Healthy Community Program.
‘The program is also recruiting for Community Connector Volunteers and Community Ambassadors to support and guide participants. Sometimes, that one‐to‐one support makes all the difference,’ said Ms Wheeler.
To sign up as a participant or volunteer, head to feroscare.com.au/healthyme or call 1300 987 215 for more information.
May
2023
North Coast community members seeking mental health, drug and alcohol, or psychosocial support will soon have access to improved services, developed with community input. Healthy North Coast, a local not-for-profit organisation responsible for improving access to primary care health services, recently announced changes to the services they fund as part of a mental health reform project that began in 2022.
The project was undertaken in response to the National Mental Health Commission’s Review of Mental Health Programs and Services, with a key element being consultation with local partners, community members, and health care providers to design alternative ways of delivering care to drive better service experience and health outcomes. Face-to-face workshops were held across the region, along with online solution design workshops and focus groups with GPs, community members, and people with lived experience.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Monika Wheeler noted that community input was critical in evaluating current service models and identifying where the biggest improvements could be made.
‘Feedback highlighted the current complexity of knowing where to go or who to call to seek help for specific needs, and the differing levels of ease of access and service quality in our region,’ she said. ‘People also reported the experience of needing to go to lots of different places to get help for different needs, which is very difficult for people seeking support.’
As a result of the consultation and co-design process, Healthy North Coast has awarded funding contracts for three programs that will work collaboratively to offer joined-up services: the Primary Mental Health Program (awarded to EACH as part of a consortium with Chess Connect, Health Voyage, The Buttery, and Wellways), the Drug and Alcohol Treatment Program (awarded to The Buttery), and the Psychosocial Support Program (awarded to Mission Australia). These programs will be delivered through what is known as a ‘hub and spoke’ model.
The ‘hub and spoke’ model in this context refers to a network of service locations across the region, with every North Coast Local Government Area getting either a ‘hub’ or a ‘spoke’. The ‘hub’ is a fixed site with multidisciplinary teams offering care, while the ‘spoke’ is smaller in size and more flexible but still offers access to multiple care teams and the same support pathways.
‘The new model will help us to deliver the consistent care experience that our community has asked for. It is a ‘no-wrong-door’ approach that will help to change the way we provide wraparound mental health and related support services. With service options now coming together as a collective offer, people will know where to turn to even when they need help across a range of needs.’
This new service model will start from July 1 and will be accessed by visiting one of the locations, or by firstly phoning the existing Head to Health 1800 595 212 phone line.
Head to Health operates Monday to Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm. It provides a central point to connect people to services and offers support, advice and digital information resources.
Head to Health is not a crisis service. For immediate support, call 000 or:
Lifeline 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
1800 Respect 1800 737 732
MensLine 1300 789 978
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
May
2023
Northern NSW residents are set to benefit from a free new service that aims to improve access to local healthcare.
North Coast Health Connect, launched today for 29 postcodes across Northern NSW, offers a free 1800 phone number or live web chat for residents to speak with a registered nurse any time of the day or night, including public holidays.
Funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN program and delivered by Amplar Health, the service ensures urgent health concerns can be assessed quickly and confidentially by a trusted health professional. If needed, residents can be connected with a local general practice, community pharmacist or a virtual care appointment.
Healthy North Coast’s Chief Executive Monika Wheeler said the service opens a new front door to local health care, including urgent care, for those unsure about the next step, helping to ease pressure on hospital resources.
‘Having launched to Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Coffs Harbour residents over the past five months, the service has already supported thousands of locals to receive health advice quickly wherever they are and in a way that suits them,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘We understand when there is a health urgency it’s important to get advice quickly no matter the time of day. North Coast Health Connect nurses will assess your symptoms and provide on-the-spot advice.
‘Most people don’t want to go to a hospital emergency department if they can avoid it, but it can be hard to get a GP appointment in some areas. Medical issues also often strike after hours when local services are closed.
‘North Coast Health Connect offers an alternative, with nurses on-call around the clock, ready to listen to your health concerns and connect you to the right level of care at the right time, including bookings with a local GP or pharmacist,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Ms Wheeler said the need to see a GP face-to-face for some health concerns will never change and participating local general practices have made appointments available specifically for users of the North Coast Health Connect service. The service is also strongly supported by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), with local pharmacists signed up to make consultations available.
Amplar Health Chief Executive Officer Dr Andrew Wilson said the Amplar team is thrilled to now be delivering the North Coast Health Connect service to all Northern NSW residents, as improving primary care access is a key element to ensuring the sustainability of healthcare in Australia.
‘Our digital and clinical expertise will ensure the service delivers increased access, choice and control to the local Northern NSW community,’ Dr Wilson said.
Northern NSW Local Health District Acting Chief Executive, Lynne Weir, supported the service as an additional avenue for residents to receive expert medical advice and care outside of the hospital setting.
‘This service is a welcome addition to the range of healthcare options for people in our region, and will help keep our emergency departments for emergencies,’ Ms Weir said.
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia National President Dr Fei Sim applauded Healthy North Coast for their innovation in a health system under increasing stress.
‘With the Australian health system under enormous pressure, there is an important role for pharmacists to play in supporting patients with non-urgent health care needs,’ Dr Sim said.
‘Services like North Coast Health Connect that connect patients with an appropriate healthcare profession – whether it be a GP, a pharmacist, or another health professional – are vital to ensuring our health system efficiently utilises all resources,’ said Dr Sim.
Ms Wheeler said North Coast Health Connect delivers on what the North Coast community asked for – being able to speak to a health expert for free over a convenient and confidential 24/7 channel with connections to face-to-face local health care.
‘We are excited to see all Northern NSW residents have access to this service which has already supported many in Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Coffs Harbour. We encourage you to speak with a North Coast Health Connect nurse on 1800 198 888 or live chat at northcoasthealthconnect.org.au next time you have an urgent health issue,’ said Ms Wheeler.
North Coast Health Connect will also be evaluated by world-leading medical research centre, The George Institute for Global Health, over the next five years.
To find out more about North Coast Health Connect, visit northcoasthealthconnect.org.au
Healthy North Coast delivers the North Coast Primary Health Network program on behalf of the Australian Government. Amplar Health is a business of Medibank Health Solutions Pty Limited (ABN 99 078 934 791).
May
2023
Healthy North Coast is reminding communities across our region to book a flu shot before winter and the traditional flu season.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive, Monika Wheeler, said there was a resurgence of influenza in 2022 due to the reopening of international borders, and the same risk was likely this year.
‘Last year’s flu season started in late April and peaked around June, a couple of months earlier than usual,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘That’s why we are launching some new resources today urging North Coast residents to get in and book a vaccination appointment with their GP or local pharmacy as soon as possible.’
Those considered to be at higher risk of severe illness from influenza are eligible for free annual flu vaccination under the National Immunisation Program.
This includes:
The influenza vaccine can often be given with other vaccines, including COVID-19. All adults can get a COVID-19 booster if it’s been six months or longer since their last booster or confirmed infection.
This is particularly recommended for everyone 65 years and over, and everyone 18 years and over with medical comorbidities, disability or complex health needs.
Local GP, Dr Debra King, said that recent NSW Health COVID-19 Surveillance Reports indicate there is still COVID-19 transmission occurring in the community.
‘COVID and influenza together have the potential to put significant strain on our health system, which is something we all want to avoid,’ said Dr King.
As well as vaccination, there are also some simple ways to prevent transmission of the flu virus and COVID-19 including:
Ms Wheeler said that Healthy North Coast was also keen to partner with local clinicians, pharmacies, community groups and other businesses to help get the word out about vaccination protection in our community.
‘Back by popular demand, we have developed a new set of free posters as a timely reminder for community members to ‘boost their immunity’ this flu season, including COVID-19 vaccination.
‘The poster set is designed for our North Coast communities, with tailored messaging reviewed by local clinicians and an option to customise the posters with your own practice or business logo,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Posters are currently being distributed directly to all general practices in the region and are available to order from the Healthy North Coast website at https://hnc.org.au/vaccinesprotect/.
‘I would urge everyone to please speak with their GP, Aboriginal medical service or participating pharmacy today about booking their vaccination and protecting themselves, their family and our community,’ Ms Wheeler said.
For more information, visit the Healthy North Coast website.
May
2023
Healthy North Coast, the not-for-profit organisation delivering the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network program for our region, has welcomed the recent announcement of new mental health service funding and the planned establishment of a Coffs Harbour Head to Health service.
Head to Health services are designed to be set up in convenient, central locations and to help to increase access to free mental health support for people over 18.
Monika Wheeler, Healthy North Coast’s Chief Executive, is pleased that 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 4 years.
‘People living in and around Coffs Harbour will have access to a free walk-in service that can provide on-the-spot support,’ Ms Wheeler explained.
‘This will be the second Head to Health site for our region. Lismore’s Head to Health service opened in March 2022 after the floods and has provided close to 1,000 occasions of service to-date,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Like Lismore and other established Head to Health locations, the Coffs Harbour service will offer immediate, short- and medium-term care for people with moderate to severe mental health needs, including adults seeking help in times of crisis.
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.
‘Head to Health services are known for being welcoming, supportive and non-judgmental environments. Once established, clinical and peer support workers will be on hand to offer assessment, advice and care for people when they need it most.’
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.
‘We all need to prioritise our mental health and wellbeing and the new Coffs Harbour Head to Health will be a welcome addition to the region’s existing services,’ Ms Wheeler said.
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’s 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.
Read the full announcement by The Hon Emma McBride MP: https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-emma-mcbride-mp/media/new-adult-mental-health-services-for-regional-new-south-wales?language=en
Apr
2023
Coffs Harbour residents are set to benefit from a free new service that aims to improve access to local healthcare.
North Coast Health Connect, now available for those living in Coffs Harbour postcodes, including the Nambucca and Bellingen regions, offers a free 1800 phone number or live web chat for residents to speak with a registered nurse any time of the day or night, including public holidays.
Funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN program and delivered by Amplar Health, the service ensures urgent health concerns can be assessed quickly and confidentially by a trusted health professional. If needed, residents can be connected with a local service or a virtual care appointment.
Healthy North Coast’s Chief Executive Monika Wheeler said the service opens a new front door to local health care, including urgent care, for those unsure about the next step, helping to ease pressure on hospital resources.
‘Having launched to Port Macquarie residents in December and Kempsey residents last month, the service has already supported hundreds of locals to receive health advice quickly wherever they are and in a way that suits them.
‘We understand when there is a health urgency it’s important to get advice quickly no matter the time of day. North Coast Health Connect nurses will assess your symptoms and provide on-the-spot advice.
‘Most people don’t want to go to a hospital emergency department if they can avoid it, but it can be hard to get a GP appointment in some areas. Medical issues also often strike after hours when local services are closed.
‘North Coast Health Connect offers an alternative, with nurses on-call around the clock, ready to listen to your health concerns and connect you to the right level of care at the right time, including bookings with a local GP or pharmacist,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Ms Wheeler said the need to see a GP face-to-face for some health concerns will never change and participating local general practices have made appointments available specifically for users of the North Coast Health Connect service. The service is also strongly supported by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), with local pharmacists signed up to make consultations available.
Amplar Health Chief Executive Officer Dr Andrew Wilson said the Amplar team is thrilled to be delivering the North Coast Health Connect service to Coffs Harbour residents, as improving primary care access is a key element to ensuring the sustainability of healthcare in Australia.
‘Our digital and clinical expertise will ensure the service delivers increased access, choice and control to the local Coffs community,’ Dr Wilson said.
Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick said he fully supported this new and innovative model and will be promoting North Coast Health Connect through the Mid North Coast hospital system.
‘For those who may have been struggling to access the health system, North Coast Health Connect is a direct line to a qualified and trusted health professional, rather than facing a long wait in a busy ED.
‘It’s up to all of us to make the best possible use of our hospital resources and keep our emergency departments for emergencies,’ Mr Dowrick said.
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia National President Dr Fei Sim applauded Healthy North Coast for their innovation in a health system under increasing stress.
‘With the Australian health system under enormous pressure, there is an important role for pharmacists to play in supporting patients with non-urgent health care needs,’ Dr Sim said.
‘Services like North Coast Health Connect that connect patients with an appropriate healthcare profession – whether it be a GP, a pharmacist, or another health professional – are vital to ensuring our health system efficiently utilises all resources,’ said Dr Sim.
Ms Wheeler said North Coast Health Connect delivers on what the North Coast community asked for – being able to speak to a health expert for free over a convenient and confidential 24/7 channel with connections to face-to-face local health care.
‘We are excited to see Coffs Harbour residents have access to this service which has already supported many in Port Macquarie and Kempsey. We encourage you to speak with a North Coast Health Connect nurse on 1800 198 888 or live chat at northcoasthealthconnect.org.au next time you have an urgent health issue,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Amplar and Healthy North Coast are planning to make North Coast Health Connect available to all North Coast residents by mid-2023.
North Coast Health Connect will also be evaluated by world-leading medical research centre, The George Institute for Global Health, over the next five years.
To find out more about North Coast Health Connect, visit northcoasthealthconnect.org.au
Mar
2023
The Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre has been selected as one of 20 Australian Government-funded sites to establish a specialised Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic.
Healthy North Coast, the local not-for-profit organisation delivering the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network Program, is providing $700,000 over four years to GenHealth, which operates the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Monika Wheeler said the clinic would expand existing services available at the health centre, providing more people with access and options for primary health care.
‘This is great news for our Mid North Coast region. The new funding will go toward hiring specialised staff, including nurse practitioners and allied health professionals, as well as investing in equipment and fit-outs such as pelvic physiotherapy areas,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘Endometriosis affects at least one in nine Australian women and can have a significant impact on their daily lives. Currently, women wait an average of seven years for diagnosis. Pelvic pain can be similarly complex and debilitating.
‘The new clinic will help reduce diagnostic delays and promote early access to information and care pathways for women with endometriosis and pelvic pain.
‘Healthy North Coast will be working closely with the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre to plan the clinic operations and ensure it meets the needs of our community.’
Dr Shelley Rowe, Chief Executive of GenHealth, said the new clinic would fill a much-needed gap in the region.
‘It will provide a new avenue of care for girls and women diagnosed with endometriosis and pelvic pain,’ Dr Rowe said.
‘It means people experiencing these health concerns, and complications from these issues, will be able to be treated close to home, an important goal for healthcare and a priority for women and their families.
‘Many women already travel from regional towns and centres to access treatment in Coffs Harbour. Our GPs saw over 2,000 women last year; our allied health professionals saw over 500 women; and our nurses saw over 1,500, which indicates the demand there is here for specialist women’s services in this regional area.
‘The establishment of the new clinic will strengthen the capability of the entire local health workforce and provide improved options for referral,’ Dr Rowe said.
The exact timing for service commencement is still being planned. Further information will be available through the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre Facebook page.
Mar
2023
A comprehensive survey of Northern Rivers school children, completed in late 2022 and coordinated by Healthy North Coast, has set a baseline to measure our young people’s mental health and wellbeing, following the 2022 floods.
6,611 children and young people from 75 Northern Rivers schools completed the Resilience Survey, Australia’s most widely used mental health and wellbeing survey for schools, in October and November last year.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive, Monika Wheeler, said this was the largest group ever to complete the survey following a natural disaster and represents just over 12 per cent of all schoolaged young people in the Northern Rivers region.
‘This is a ground-breaking result and I am very grateful to all the students, parents and school staff for their participation in the survey,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘We now have a clear indication of how our young people are faring in terms of resilience and wellbeing, which means we can design local mental health supports, tailored specifically to their needs,’ Ms Wheeler said.
Healthy North Coast commissioned the survey as the first step in Healthy North Coast’s Resilient Kids Program, a $10 million initiative funded by the National Emergency Management Agency to support community recovery from the 2022 flood events.
The Resilience Survey was designed and administered by Resilient Youth Australia and the University of Adelaide and has been completed by more than 500,000 students in over 1,500 schools since 2013.
Ms Wheeler said Healthy North Coast is currently reviewing the survey report prepared by the University of Adelaide and will release an in-depth analysis in April, along with insights gathered from student workshops held from December 2022 to February 2023.
‘In terms of preliminary results, though, we can already see that 2022 wellbeing and life satisfaction levels in our young people are generally similar to the national averages for the 2021
Resilience Survey cohort, a group of nearly 64,000 young Australians aged 7 to 18.
‘Despite everything that has come at them in the past 12 months and even before that, our young people reported generally feeling supported and connected within their schools, families and communities.
‘However, the survey also highlights areas in need of future focus. Reports of depressive and anxiety symptoms were slightly higher than the 2021 Resilience Survey national averages for primary students, though similar to the 2021 national average for secondary students.
‘Almost one in three Northern Rivers primary students and more than one in three secondary students were at risk for depression and anxiety, which is of concern,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Using data from the Resilience Survey, research evidence and the information gathered from codesign workshops in March 2023, Healthy North Coast will commission a suite of mental health and wellbeing initiatives for children and young people to be delivered from July 2023.
‘We know that recovery is not a one-off event. It’s multi-year and multi-layered and our approach to supporting our young people might change over time as we see how they respond,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘Right now, though, I would encourage everyone to prioritise their mental health over the coming months. If you are feeling overwhelmed or just want to have a chat, please reach out to one of the free or low-cost mental health support services funded by Healthy North Coast,’ Ms Wheeler said.
For more information about the Resilient Kids program and the preliminary survey results, visit https://hnc.org.au/resilient-kids/
Mar
2023
One year on, Healthy North Coast and the NSW Government continue to support Northern NSW communities impacted by the 2022 floods through Community Wellbeing and Resilience grants already delivering benefits on the ground.
Funded through the NSW Government’s three-year, $5 million flood recovery funding package, the Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Recovery Grants program supports individuals and communities to recover from the impacts of natural disaster and build their capacity to face future challenges.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer, Monika Wheeler, said a range of activities and programs are supporting communities to connect, learn and heal through the recovery process.
‘All funded activities build on the foundations of community connection, which is our region’s great strength,’ Ms Wheeler said.
‘The programs have been designed by local communities to facilitate tailored, community-led solutions that acknowledge that recovery is a multi-year process. For this reason, funding will be released in stages to better respond to community needs as they arise,’ said Ms Wheeler.
NSW Minister for Regional Health and Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said it is important that Northern NSW communities are given the tools and support they need to continue their recovery from last year’s devastating flooding events.
“These grants will help provide a much-needed boost for communities who have been through a very difficult time, and the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to ensuring we are doing everything we can to support them.”
In this funding round, eleven Northern NSW organisations will deliver an initial $2.7 million in grant activities, with a key focus on community recovery, vulnerable population groups and First Nations people.
The programs include funding for grassroots community-based recovery organisations including Wardell Community Organised Resilience Effort (CORE), Resilient Lismore, Resilient Uki and Murwillumbah Community Recovery and Resilience project.
‘A new group of grassroots organisations have emerged organically in response to the floods and we are building a new model of community-led recovery in our region,’ said Joel Orchard, Executive Director of Wardell CORE.
‘With funding from Healthy North Coast and others, we have been able to implement wellbeing activities and in-house mental health support, leading to a new sense of community connectedness in Wardell and surrounding villages that were devastated by the floods.’
Mr Orchard said Wardell CORE was seeing around 350 people a week, with many seeking peer support and company.
‘We have counsellors on site, so that people don’t have to dance between multiple practitioners,’ he said. ‘We’re dealing with a typically older demographic. Everything we do is therapeutic by nature.’
Aboriginal community-controlled organisation Rekindling the Spirit and The Returning Indigenous Corporation have also been funded through the program. Rekindling the Spirit will auspice a Community Healing Hub and a Mobile Healing Hub that delivers services and healing activities to First Nations people across the Northern Rivers.
The Returning’s recovery program includes a series of cultural connection retreats, an Indigenous Knowledge Hub and a podcast series that will reflect upon and consolidate lessons learned through Indigenous community-led recovery following the Lismore floods.
An additional group of programs are tailored to support displaced community members, women, young people, older people and LGBTQ+ community members thought trauma education, counselling, case management and recovery activities for individuals impacted by the floods.
A full list of funded programs is available here.
Healthy North Coast will call for proposals for remaining funds in mid-2023.
Feb
2023
Northern Rivers residents are reminded that free mental health support is only a phone call or web chat away, with in-person counselling also available.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive, Monika Wheeler, said that these next few weeks could be particularly challenging for Northern Rivers residents and urged locals to prioritise their mental health.
‘Looking out for each other is what has got our community through the past 12 months. There are many things about our current situation that we cannot change, but we can all take steps to look after our heads and hearts,’ Ms Wheeler said.
‘If you or someone you know is struggling or could simply benefit from a friendly and supportive chat, I urge you to reach out.
‘Healthy North Coast offers a range of free and after-hours services to support mental health and wellbeing for all ages, with a number of them made available through Australian Government and NSW Government flood recovery.
‘There’s no shame in saying you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want to talk things through. I encourage all community members, including our hardworking primary care professionals, to prioritise their mental health care over the coming weeks,’ Ms Wheeler said.
Head to Health
Head to Health offers free mental health support over the phone or in person at the Lismore Head to Health hub. Head to Health is a welcoming entry point for engagement, assessment and treatment for people seeking mental health advice and support.
Call 1800 595 212 weekdays from 8.30am to 5pm to chat to a team member who can connect you with support or visit https://hnc.org.au/head-to-health-helpline.
The Lismore Head to Hub is open Monday-Friday 10am to 8pm, Saturday noon to 8pm, and Sunday 10am to 2pm. It is located at the Lismore Health Precinct, Southern Cross University Health Clinic, P Block North, Rifle Range Road, East Lismore. Drop-ins are encouraged and you don’t need a referral or appointment.
Safe Haven Community and wellbeing hubs
Located in Woodburn, Lismore, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah, Safe Haven hubs are open to anyone seeking free mental health support, including their family, friends and carers. Safe Haven hubs are open 12 — 6pm every day. Drop-ins are encouraged and you don’t need a referral or appointment. Visit the Safe Haven website to learn more.
headspace
headspace centres offer mental health support and advice for young people aged 12 to 25. All services are free or low cost. Headspace centres are located at the Lismore Health Precinct at South Cross University, Tweed and Grafton, and are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. You don’t need a referral or appointment.
Alternatively, headspace can also support young people online or by phone, seven days a week between 9am – 1am.
Strong Community Program
The Strong Community Program provides free specialist mental health support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Northern Rivers, age 12 years and over. Mental health and wellbeing supports include in-person counselling, mental health promotion in schools and outreach to communities in Cabbage Tree Island, Wardell, Ballina, Box Ridge, Woodburn, Lismore and neighbouring areas.
For in-person support, visit 133 Ballina Rd, East Lismore. Contact Strong Community by email on [email protected] or call 0456 447 790 or 1300 727 957.
GP Telehealth
If you can’t access your regular GP, Healthy North Coast offers a 24-hour free GP telehealth service across the Northern Rivers. Through a phone or video consult, you can access health advice, diagnosis and treatment, as well as electronic prescriptions, medical certificates and specialist referrals. To book a GP telehealth consult, call 1800 931 158.
If you need immediate support:
In an emergency, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Dec
2022
Residents living in Port Macquarie area postcodes will be the first to benefit from a free new service that aims to improve access to local healthcare.
North Coast Health Connect, launched on December 8, offers a free 1800 phone number or live web chat for residents to speak with a registered nurse any time of the day or night, including public holidays.
Funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN program and delivered by Amplar Health, the new service ensures urgent health concerns can be assessed quickly and confidentially by a trusted health professional. If needed, residents can be connected with a local service or a virtual care appointment.
Healthy North Coast’s Chief Executive Monika Wheeler said the service opens a new front door to local health care, including urgent care, for those unsure about the next step, helping to ease pressure on hospital resources.
‘We understand when there is a health urgency it’s important to get advice quickly no matter the time of day. North Coast Health Connect nurses will assess your symptoms and provide on-the-spot advice,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘Most people don’t want to go to a hospital emergency department if they can avoid it, but it can be hard to get a GP appointment in some areas. Medical issues also often strike after hours when local services are closed.
‘North Coast Health Connect offers an alternative, with nurses on-call around the clock, ready to listen to your health concerns and connect you to the right level of care at the right time, including bookings with a local GP or pharmacist,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Ms Wheeler said the need to see a GP face-to-face for some health concerns will never change and North Coast Health Connect is supported by participating local general practices who have made appointments available specifically for users of the North Coast Health Connect service. Local pharmacists have also signed up to make consultations available.
Amplar Health Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andrew Wilson, said the Amplar team is thrilled to be selected to deliver the North Coast Health Connect service, as improving primary care access is a key element to ensuring the sustainability of healthcare in Australia.
‘We look forward to providing our digital and clinical expertise to deliver a service for Healthy North Coast that increases access, choice and control for the local community,’ Dr Wilson said.
Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick said he fully supported this new and innovative model and will be promoting North Coast Health Connect through the Mid North Coast hospital system.
‘It’s up to all of us to make the best possible use of our hospital resources and keep our emergency departments for emergencies,’ said Mr Dowrick.
‘For those who may have been struggling to access the health system, North Coast Health Connect is a direct line to a qualified and experienced health professional, rather than facing a long wait in a busy ED, ‘ Mr Dowrick said.
PSA National President Dr Fei Sim applauded Healthy North Coast for their innovation in a health system under increasing stress.
‘The Australian health system is under enormous pressure, and there is an important role for pharmacists to play in supporting patients with non-urgent health care needs, Dr Sim said.
‘Services like North Coast Health Connect that connect patients with an appropriate healthcare profession – whether it be a GP, a pharmacist, or another health professional – are vital to ensuring our health system efficiently utilises all resources,’ said Dr Sim.
Ms Wheeler said North Coast Health Connect delivers on what the North Coast community asked for – being able to speak to a health expert for free over a convenient and confidential 24/7 channel with connections to face-to-face local health care.
‘We are excited to see Port Macquarie residents be the first to get on board. We encourage you to speak with a North Coast Health Connect nurse on 1800 198 888 or live chat at northcoasthealthconnect.org.au next time you have an urgent health issue,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Healthy North Coast is planning to make North Coast Health Connect available to all North Coast residents in early 2023.
North Coast Health Connect will also be evaluated by world-leading medical research centre, The George Institute for Global Health, over the next five years.
To find out more about North Coast Health Connect, visit northcoasthealthconnect.org.au
Dec
2022
Healthy North Coast, which delivers the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network program in our region, announces Monika Wheeler’s appointment as their new Chief Executive.
Ms Wheeler brings 20 years of experience working in primary healthcare and social policy across the local, state, and national levels of government and the not-for-profit sector. Some of these roles have been at Healthy North Coast, the NSW Ministry of Health, as a Policy Adviser to Australian Government Minister Tanya Plibersek MP, and with the United Nations.
Dr Adrian Gilliland, Independent Chair of Healthy North Coast, said the Board was delighted with the decision and opportunity to make this announcement before the end of the year.
‘Monika has been in the acting role since former Chief Executive Julie Sturgess’ departure in September this year. The Board would like to thank Julie for her work. She led Healthy North Coast with passion, vision and unceasing commitment to our North Coast Community that has faced devastating bushfires, unprecedented floods and a global pandemic. ‘Monika has continued the journey to enhance Healthy North Coast as a Primary Health Network recognised for its innovation, collaboration with other agencies and ability to get things done,’ said Dr Gilliland.
‘Monika has spent almost ten years at Healthy North Coast, the last four as the Executive Director for Wellness. Her appointment to Chief Executive will undoubtedly further strengthen the organisation’s position as a leader in regional primary health,’ added Dr Gilliland.
‘Primary health care is at a critical juncture. A growing ageing population is increasing the demand placed on our healthcare system and workforce. The impact of climate change on our health and wellbeing is and will continue to be experienced locally. And the slower uptake of digital connectivity in the health sector has held us back in advancing a connected health system experience.
‘We need to remain focused on preventative and primary care — every dollar spent in primary and preventative health is worth two dollars in hospital services for long-term health outcomes,’ said Dr Gilliland.
‘Monika brings an impressive level of strategic and operational knowledge and experience. She is committed to working collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders and to ensuring North Coast community voices are at the centre of decision-making. These are key principles for supporting value-based primary care that is easy to access and delivers better health outcomes in our region,’ added Dr Gilliland.
Born in Lismore, where she also went to school, Ms Wheeler expressed gratitude for the efforts of recent times. As the new Chief Executive for Healthy North Coast, she looks forward to continuing to work with the Board, staff, GPs, nurses, allied health professionals, Aboriginal medical services, local health districts and other key stakeholders to improve health outcomes for North Coast communities.
‘Our region has sustained huge pressure, particularly in the last four years, with multiple natural disasters and COVID. Our primary care workforce has risen to the challenge of supporting our communities. Service providers have worked tirelessly to keep people healthy in the community and, where possible, to avoid the need for hospital care,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘The North Coast is expected to see our ageing population continue to grow. Nearly one in three North Coast residents is expected to be 65 years or older in the next ten years – twice the NSW and national averages. We must create a future-ready health system that is able to meet this growing demand,’ said Ms Wheeler.
‘We need to make health services easier to access, empower the community to make healthier lifestyle choices and reduce the burden of chronic illness. Healthy North Coast is well-placed to drive these changes in collaboration with GPs, allied health professionals and other stakeholders. I look forward to building on the achievements of recent years and to supporting the next phase of our strategic focus,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Oct
2022
Healthy North Coast Acting Chief Executive, Monika Wheeler, is urging North Coast residents to stay vigilant when it comes to COVID-19.
‘With mandatory self-isolation rules changing today Friday 14 October, it would be easy to think COVID is no longer a threat to our community.
‘In case people think COVID-19 has faded away, in the past week in NSW there have been 6,799 cases confirmed by RATs and 3,968 cases confirmed by PCR tests, so the virus is still quite active.
‘There is also the possibility of new COVID-19 strains emerging, so we can’t be complacent,” Ms Wheeler said.
Following a national Cabinet decision earlier this month, all Australian states and territories agreed that from 14 October 2022, it will no longer be mandatory to self-isolate at home if you test positive for COVID-19 unless you work in the health or aged care sector.
“It’s still vital, however, that we all work together to keep our community safe,” said Ms Wheeler.
‘Since the arrival of COVID-19, we have learnt a lot about infection control and reducing the spread of diseases like COVID-19 and influenza.
‘The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and influenza is to continue to follow the health advice we know so well – be vaccinated, wash your hands, stay home if you are unwell and get tested if you have symptoms,” Ms Wheeler said.
“To protect our most vulnerable, all people over the age of 12 must still wear a face mask at public hospitals, private health or residential care facilities, and hostels.
‘It’s still very important to stay up-to-date with vaccinations, particularly for children, and to book in for your relevant COVID-19 booster,” Ms Wheeler said.
The NSW Government has also ended mandatory reporting of positive rapid antigen tests.
However, NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant asks people to continue to report positive results, as it allows NSW Health to connect people to medical care – particularly older people and the immunocompromised.
North Coast residents can book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment by texting ‘Hey EVA’ (Easy Vaccination Access) to 0481 611 382 or visiting the online COVID-19 vaccination clinic finder to book an appointment.
Sep
2022
Lismore’s Head to Health Hub has extended its opening times, now open after-hours and on weekends, making it even easier for local residents to access mental health support.
Located at the Lismore Health Precinct at Southern Cross University, the Lismore Head to Health hub is now open Monday-Friday 10am to 8pm and Saturday-Sunday 12 noon to 8pm.
Funded by Healthy North Coast through the PHN Program, Head to Health offers free mental health support both in-person and over the phone.
Healthy North Coast CEO Julie Sturgess said Head to Health was a welcoming entry point for engagement, assessment and treatment for people seeking mental health advice and support.
‘With all that has been thrown at our community over the past two years, there’s no shame in saying you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want to talk things through,’ Ms Sturgess said.
‘It’s really important that we prioritise our mental health and wellbeing and reach out if we need help.’
Healthy North Coast has recently commissioned local provider Open Minds to provide the in-person Lismore Head to Health service for those aged 18 and over. Referrals are not necessary and walk-ins are welcome.
Call 1800 595 212 weekdays from 8.30am-5pm to chat to a team member who can connect you with support.
‘Head to Health is free and can connect you to the right mental health information, counselling and services to suit your needs. I really hope people take that first step rather than push their concerns aside,’ said Ms Sturgess.
For more information, free call 1800 595 212 or visit https://hnc.org.au/head-to-health-helpline.
The Lismore Head to Hub is located at the Lismore Health Precinct, Southern Cross University Health Clinic, P Block North, Rifle Range Road, East Lismore.
Head to Health is not an emergency service. For 24/7 emergency support, call:
In an emergency, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Jun
2022
Healthy North Coast is reminding communities across our region to stay on top of their COVID vaccinations, as well as booking in for a free flu shot this month. Conveniently, the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be given at the same time if you are due for both.
Flu cases rising
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive, Julie Sturgess, said the latest health data indicates influenza activity in the community is increasing rapidly, due to an early start to the winter influenza season.
‘Due to COVID-19 restrictions and reduced travel, there was very little influenza getting around in the community last year and also a decrease in influenza vaccine coverage,’ Ms Sturgess said.
‘Now that international and state borders are open again, we’re seeing a dramatic increase in influenza cases.
‘As at 11 June 2022, there were 1,558 notifications of influenza cases across the North Coast this year, with 76% of these notifications reported within the last 4 weeks, so we’re definitely seeing case numbers climb as winter sets in.
‘We are urging North Coast residents to take advantage of free flu shots offered by the NSW Government up to 30 June and to book a vaccination appointment with their GP or local pharmacy as soon as possible.’
The influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over and can be given with other vaccines, including COVID-19.
COVID still a risk to community
Ms Sturgess said the North Coast has an outstanding COVID vaccination rate, but it’s important to continue to strengthen protection given COVID variants are still circulating.
‘I urge parents to not let their and their children’s vaccination dates slip,’ she said. ‘Whether it’s a second dose for younger children or a booster for teens aged 12-15 who may be more vulnerable to COVID than others, please take the time to book an appointment so we can maintain a high level of protection across the region.’
As at 20 June 2022, 65% of eligible North Coast residents aged 15+ have had their booster shot, behind the NSW average of 68%.
COVID-19 vaccinations are free and available at a range of locations including local GPs, pharmacies or respiratory clinics.
You can book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment by texting ‘Hey EVA’ (Easy Vaccination Access) to 0481 611 382 or visit the online COVID-19 vaccination clinic finder to book an appointment.
‘Ideally, we would like everyone to book their COVID-booster and flu shot for the same time to maximise community protection,’ Ms Sturgess said.
COVID-19 vaccination
Influenza immunisation
NSW Government announced free flu shots for everyone aged 6 months and older from 1 June 2022 to 30 June 2022.
Those considered to be at higher risk of severe illness from influenza are eligible all year for free annual flu vaccination under the National Immunisation Program. This includes:
Minimise your risk of catching COVID-19 or the flu
Take simple precautions to minimise the risk of catching COVID-19 or the flu and passing it on:
May
2022
Community organisations can now apply for funding through the three-year, $5 million Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Recovery Grants program, as well as assistance to help with their grant application.
Grants will be awarded to non-government providers helping the community from the ground up, by providing community-based trauma and healing programs that support local recovery and build community resilience.
Funded by the NSW Government as part of the Northern NSW flood recovery package, the grants will be delivered by Healthy North Coast to help communities recover from flood impacts and strengthen their capacity to meet future challenges.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer, Julie Sturgess, said Healthy North Coast is seeking innovative proposals that get people connecting, communicating, learning and supporting each other – activities that tap into the region’s social support networks.
‘We know many people are focussing on the basics right now, but we also need to rebuild community connections that are so vital for a positive outlook when times are tough. This is about supporting hearts and minds to get the North Coast back on its feet,’ Ms Sturgess said.
To support participation, Healthy North Coast has partnered with Successful Grants to offer local community organisations up to 2 hours of free professional assistance with the application process.
This assistance includes concept scoping, application review and feedback.
‘We welcome our partnership with Successful Grants, which will help those smaller organisations that might be unfamiliar with the tender process and overwhelmed by the writing task,’ Ms Sturgess said.
Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Recovery Grants program
The grants program has a key focus on young people, older people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the NSW local government areas of Lismore, Richmond Valley, Tweed, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Clarence Valley.
Healthy North Coast is inviting proposals for the following eligible community-led activities or services:
Grant application assistance and submission
As well as offering assistance with the grant application process, Successful Grants has also distilled the tender documents into an easy-to-read one-page document, so that organisations can quickly assess their eligibility for the program.
If you are a local community-based organisation and would like to access this assistance, please email [email protected].
For more information on the Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Recovery Grants program, including how to apply, visit https://hnc.org.au/community-wellbeing-and-resilience-flood-recovery-grants-program/.
Applications close at 8am on Friday 27 May 2022.
May
2022
Healthy North Coast invites proposals from non-government providers to apply for funding available through the three-year, $5 million Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Recovery Grants program.
Grants will be awarded to organisations helping the community from the ground up, by providing community-based trauma and healing programs that support local recovery and build community resilience following the recent flood events.
Funded by the NSW Government as part of the Northern NSW flood recovery package, the grants will be delivered by Healthy North Coast to aid community recovery efforts.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer, Julie Sturgess, said the program would support vulnerable communities to recover from flood impacts and strengthen their capacity to meet future challenges.
‘We know many people are focussing on the basics right now – a roof over their heads, settling kids at school, getting businesses up and running again.
‘Alongside these practical considerations, we also need to address rebuilding community connections that are so vital for a positive outlook when times are tough. This is about supporting hearts and minds to get the North Coast back on its feet,’ said Ms Sturgess.
The grants program has a key focus on young people, older people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the NSW local government areas of Lismore, Richmond Valley, Tweed, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Clarence Valley.
‘We’re looking for innovative proposals that get people connecting, communicating, learning and supporting each other – all the activities that tap into the social support networks that our region is already known for.
“Trauma-based education programs are also important to give our community the tools to support recovery from the recent natural disasters.
‘We know community leaders are already working to respond to local needs, which is why development of grant proposals and delivery of programs will be coordinated locally to enable tailored, community-led solutions, ’ Ms Sturgess said.
Funding will be allocated to selected proposals with a budget of $100,000 – $200,000 per year, and multi-year projects will be considered.
Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Recovery Grants program Healthy North Coast is inviting proposals for the following eligible community-led activities or services:
Applications close at 8am on Thursday 26 May 2022
Mar
2022
Collaboration, cooperation and the desire to help those in need has seen the establishment of a new mental health support service in Lismore just 4 weeks after floods devastated the region.
The Lismore Head to Health Hub begins operating today. It is located at Healthy North Coast’s new Lismore Primary Health Precinct, which opened its doors only last week at Southern Cross University.
Funded by the Australian Government through the PHN Program as part of the Northern NSW flood recovery efforts, Head to Health offers free mental health support both in-person and through telehealth. Head to Health Hubs are designed to provide a welcoming entry point for engagement, assessment and treatment for people who may be experiencing distress or crisis.
The intent of the Head to Health Lismore Hub is to offer immediate care and service navigation to connect people to the right services based on need. It is also a priority of the Head to Health model to provide culturally safe responses to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
No referrals are needed.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Julie Sturgess said the new service would ensure the community in and around Lismore has access to the mental health support they need.
‘We recognise that specific components of the new service will be essential to help people deal with the trauma they’ve experienced and its after-effects,’ Ms Sturgess said.
‘Mental health support is in high demand right now and into the foreseeable future. The impacts of the floods and, before this disaster, the ongoing pandemic means we all need to prioritise our mental health and wellbeing.
‘Establishing the Lismore Head to Health Hub has been a great example of responding to local community needs. We’ve fast-tracked the service launch thanks to the many willing hands.
‘Our own Healthy North Coast teams, supported by SCU staff, have pulled out all stops. Local suppliers and tradies have worked tirelessly to transform the building, and the dedicated service providers at Neami National who will start delivery services today have all made this possible.’
‘This service is designed to be a one-door for anyone seeking mental health support. Qualified staff can direct you to the service, information or resource that best suits your needs.’
Call Head to Health on 1800 595 212 from Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:00pm or visit the Lismore Head to Health Hub at Southern Cross University’s Health Clinic, P Block North, Rifle Range Road, East Lismore.
Find out more at hnc.org.au/headtohealth
Head to Health is not a crisis service. For immediate 24/7 support contact:
In an emergency call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
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Mar
2022
Caption (L-R): The Hon Kevin Hogan MP, Federal Member for Page; Tony Davies, Chief Executive Officer, Social Futures; Professor Julie Jomeen, Executive Dean, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University; Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer, Julie Sturgess; Chelsea Luker, Psychologist, Connect Us Psychology; Kyle Wood, Pharmacist and Managing Partner, Southside ChemPro; at the launch of the Lismore Primary Health Precinct established by Healthy North Coast at Southern Cross University Health Clinic.
Healthy North Coast has today opened doors on the new Lismore Primary Health Precinct at Southern Cross University Health Clinic, giving flood-impacted primary care providers a new home and providing Lismore residents access to vital primary health services they urgently need.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Office Julie Sturgess says she is delighted to see the new precinct established and operational just three weeks after the flood emergency.
“It is a real testament to the spirit of collaboration across the Northern Rivers that we have been able to rapidly coordinate alternative clinic spaces for primary health providers that would otherwise be displaced,” said Ms Sturgess.
Funded by the Australian Government through the PHN Program as part of the Northern NSW flood recovery efforts, the new precinct has the capacity to house more than 20 primary health services, including general practice, pharmacy, pathology, mental health, and a range of other allied health services.
“There is an overwhelming community demand for these services, so operating from the new Lismore Primary Health Precinct ensures our local providers can remain viable, continue to generate income and, most importantly, care for their clients,” said Ms Sturgess.
“Today, Healthy North Coast is also launching a new online directory of primary care services onsite so that community members can find out more and make appointments. To view the directory, visit hnc.org.au/lismore-primary-health-precinct.
“I also want to extend my thanks to Southern Cross University for supporting the initiative and working with Healthy North Coast to stand up this new Primary Health Precinct so quickly.
“I want to emphasise that this is not a pop-up operation. We are certainly here to meet the immediate need for primary health service continuity and are also working through the medium- to long-term provider and community needs, so we can respond appropriately based on future plans for recovery.
“The resilience and determination shown by our primary care providers to rapidly relocate is matched only by our local community’s determination and strength to recover from this natural disaster event,” Ms Sturgess said.
Mar
2022
Healthy North Coast and the Samaritans are delighted to open the doors on a dedicated headspace Kempsey offering free or low-cost, holistic and youth-friendly health care and advice.
Located at 65 Smith Street, Kempsey, on the traditional homelands of the Dunghutti nation, the new headspace Kempsey service has been funded by Healthy North Coast through the Australian Government’s PHN Program to meet the needs of young people in the community.
“As well as the usual challenges of growing up and finding your place, young people in our region have also had to deal with the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of natural disasters over the past two years,” said Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer, Julie Sturgess.
“Now, thanks to Samaritans’ community partnerships, strong advocacy from our Federal Nationals Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan, and the support of Kempsey Shire Council, young people in Kempsey now have a dedicated centre purpose-built to meet their needs,” said Ms Sturgess.
Liz Knight, Executive Director of Education and Child Development in the Samaritans Foundation based in Newcastle, said that the last few years have been uncertain times for all.
“The Samaritans Foundation is strongly committed to providing high-quality, early intervention youth services that empower young people to overcome challenges and engage with their community to find their purpose and flourish.
“We know that youth mental health continues to be a leading cause of concern for our region, and one that needs to be addressed with a person-centred, compassionate and inclusive approach. Our work in this regard is a true reflection of the Anglican Church’s commitment to ensuring that no person feels alone on their mental health journey,” said Ms Knight.
headspace offers early intervention services across four key areas—mental health, related physical health, social and vocational support, and alcohol and other drug use. Services are co-designed with young people to ensure they are relevant, accessible and highly effective, including input from Samaritan’s Youth Representative Group (YRG).
While Kempsey’s young people can now access the headspace service, which is receiving referrals by phone or email, more details will be released soon about a community launch event planned for the coming weeks.
For more information or to access headspace Kempsey:
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Mar
2022
Lismore Clinic has opened its door to patients after nearly two weeks of being closed. But it’s a different kind of door.
Thanks to the generosity of Street Side Medics and coordination by our Healthy North Coast Team, Lismore Clinic is currently seeing patients from a mobile medical centre parked out the front of their flood-damaged building at 185 Molesworth Street.
The Street Side Medics van, fully stocked with medical supplies and equipment, is being loaned free of charge by this not-for-profit organisation who normally provides medical services to people experiencing homelessness in NSW.
Today, Street Side Medics founder and Young Australian of the Year, Daniel Nour, met with Lismore Clinic and Healthy North Coast staff to do a walkthrough and handover.
Positioned outside Lismore Clinic’s character-filled 1906 building, the state-of-the-art van is being staffed by their GPs over the weekend from 10am – 1pm, with extended hours likely next week.
Clinic staff could not be more appreciative of the opportunity to start seeing their patients again.
‘This building is over a hundred years old, so it has been through a lot of floods in the past, but nothing like this one,’ said Dr Emily Walker, Lismore Clinic GP.
‘We lost a lot of equipment, probably about 50% of equipment.
Being able to use the van as a temporary consult space has brought a smile, and a tear or two, to clinic staff.
‘It’s really fantastic. There is so much equipment, as I said, that we don’t have, such as the ECG machine that this van has. The Wi-Fi has been incredibly helpful – the internet has been quite patchy. Just having things like dressings, a vaccine fridge, we’ll be able to provide the basic services that we’ve been longing to provide but have been unable to,’ said Dr Walker.
‘We’ve got over ten thousand patients on our books that have not been able to see us over the last couple of weeks, it’s going to make a huge difference.
‘Patients will really appreciate being able to come to see their usual doctors even if it’s in a slightly unusual environment.
‘We’re hoping to get the rest of the clinic open up soon as well, bit by bit, so we can start to expand our capacity.’
This is just one initiative Healthy North Coast has supported across our flood-affected region to help primary health services get back on their feet. See the full list of Lismore local general practices, Aboriginal medical services and pharmacies available on our website.
If you aren’t able to access the van or your local GP, Healthy North Coast’s PHN Program also funds the free 24/7 GP Telehealth service who offer same-day appointments, including electronic prescriptions. Please call 1800 931 158.
This is not an emergency medical service. In a medical emergency, please call Triple Zero (000).