The new services will support young people aged 12 to 25 years with, or at risk of, mild to moderate mental illness, through a comprehensive suite of early intervention mental health services. The services will be provided from a central hub in Wonthaggi, and the four existing Youth Access Clinics in Foster, Korumburra, Leongatha and Wonthaggi. An additional Youth Assist Clinic will be established on Phillip Island.
Free or low cost mental, general and sexual health services as well as education and employment, and alcohol and other drug support services will be provided. The confidential services will include sexual assault counselling, group work, disability support, family counselling, vocational guidance and assistance with job seeking.
The services will be accessible, youth-friendly and integrated to provide mental health, general health, alcohol and other drug, and vocational support to young people. There will be a focus on reducing barriers that may prevent help-seeking and facilitating early access to services that meet the holistic needs of young people.
RAV Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andrew Bickerdike, said that RAV has 70 years’ experience providing family and relationship support services, and provides a range of mental health services to support young people and families with issues affecting their wellbeing and relationships.
"Early intervention mental health services play a crucial role in healthy communities and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to provide young people in the Bass Coast and South Gippsland areas with access to high quality support services."
"We look forward to working with our valued and experienced consortium partners to support young people and their families with issues affecting their wellbeing and relationships," Dr Bickerdike said.
Ms Marianne Shearer, Chief Executive Officer of contract manager Gippsland Primary Health Network said she is delighted to have RAV lead the new services in the Bass Coast and South Gippsland region. ---
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