The Midland Intervention and Withdrawal Centre has officially been opened by newly appointed Mental Health Minister Stephen Dawson.
The new six-bed service will support up to 117 people per year. It is unique in Western Australia as it will provide people withdrawing from alcohol or drugs such as methamphetamine, the option of a lengthier stay, family support services and fast-tracked accessibility.
The service will deliver a program of up to 21 days during which an individual's medical, psychological and social needs can be assessed. Staff will work with consumers to develop individualised treatments and plans.
The service will work assertively to support a client's transition to ongoing treatment and support according to their individual needs. Support via brief intervention, education or referral will be available for the families and significant others of clients accessing the service.
The facility is a response to recommendations made by the Methamphetamine Action Plan Taskforce Report that proposed alternative approaches to help reduce the demand, harm and supply of drugs throughout the community.
It has been partly funded through the McGowan Government's WA Recovery Plan to help drive economic and social recovery across the State and has been funded via $7.2 million over four years.
The Mental Health Commission has contracted specialist community-based alcohol and drug treatment provider Cyrenian House to operate the service on behalf of Western Australians, working in partnership with mental health specialist organisation Richmond Wellbeing.
There are Community Alcohol and Drug Services available to support people experiencing issues with alcohol and drug use across the State.
Visit http://www.myservices.org.au to find your local service or call the Alcohol and Drug Support Line on 9442 5000 or 1800 198 024 (Country).
As stated by Mental Health Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The establishment of this service by the McGowan Government will provide Western Australians with fast-tracked access to alcohol and other drug treatment as it supports them and their families.
"Methamphetamine use in Western Australia has been decreasing, however, we cannot be complacent as it is continuing to have a harmful and devastating impact on the individuals and families affected.
"Congratulations to all the stakeholders involved, working together to provide this new service with the community."
"I am sure it will provide an excellent community service, improving lives for many years to come."
