Increased mental health support for youth, aged 12 to 25 years, in Armstrong Creek will be available with the announcement of the successful provider for a new headspace centre to be established in the area. Experienced mental health provider Stride Mental Health will be working with headspace National and Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) to establish the service, anticipated to open next year. Young people will be able to access services to support mental health, physical health (including sexual health) and alcohol and other drugs.
With funding from the Australian government Stride Mental Health is currently scoping for a suitable location in Armstrong Creek and will also be consulting with young people in the community on the development of the service. Stride will also draw on their experience delivering headspace services across the Geelong region and interstate for many years.
Stride Mental Health CEO Drikus van der Merwe said: “Stride is delighted to be selected as the operator of the new headspace centre in Armstrong Creek. We currently support young people in the community via headspace Geelong and a satellite site in Corio, and we look forward to engaging with the community on the development of this new centre. It’s wonderful to be partnering with Western Victoria Primary Health Network to expand the
mental health services available to young people in south Geelong and the surrounding region.”
WVPHN CEO Rowena Clift said she was delighted that such an experienced mental health provider was the successful candidate. “WVPHN and our partners at headspace National are very excited that headspace Armstrong Creek has now been given the green light,” said Ms Clift.
“Breaking down barriers for young people accessing mental health support and helping foster better relationships with their natural support networks is key to the health and wellbeing of our youth. We are proud to be providing even greater access to appropriate mental health care for them.”
“Despite existing headspace services in Geelong CBD, Corio and a satellite site in Ocean Grove, the region continues to experience high demand for mental health services. The recent WVPHN Needs Assessment report has highlighted a need to improve access to mental health services in the Geelong Otway region, particularly with the option of free services. headspace Armstrong Creek will increase access to health services to young
people,” said Ms Clift.
headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said headspace is a trusted service among young people in the Geelong region, and that this centre will give Armstrong Creek locals better access to support.
“Young people are resilient. We know with the right support they can get through tough times and get back on track.”
“We are proud that headspace, a service trusted by young people, will be able to provide support to the local community, in a comfortable and welcoming environment.”
GPs can refer young people by directly contacting their local headspace. Young people can also call to make an appointment themselves. headspace can also offer support to family of a young person.
headspace is available to young people aged 12 to 25 years along with their family to provide face-to-face information, support and services. Help is also available via phone and online counselling service eheadspace seven days a week between 9am–1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890. These services are free or low cost.