The Long Term Plan for Mental Health in Tasmania recognises that it is time for a new approach to deliver a seamless and integrated mental health system that provides end-to-end care, that offers support in the right place, at the right time, and with clear signposts about where and how to get help.
Speaking at the launch of the Grassroots Mental Health Support Project, Minister for Health Michael Ferguson said the initiative would support Tasmania’s 34 neighbourhood houses to build a better and more effective response for people experiencing mental health issues.
The Liberal Government’s investment of $300,000 into providing mental health outreach services is being delivered collaboratively with Neighbourhood Houses Tasmania and MI Fellowship, a specialist mental health service.
The initiative allows each Neighbourhood House the flexibility to identify and respond to the specific needs in their local community.
The Project will equip workers, volunteers and community members at Neighbourhood Houses with the training, knowledge and skills to confidently welcome and include people with mental health issues in their many activities.
The first stage of the Grassroots Mental Health Project will be the delivery of MI Fellowship’s Understanding Mental Health and Mental Illness workshops into Neighbourhood Houses around the state.
These evidence based workshops provide an understanding of mental health and mental illness, including information about the symptoms and behaviours associated with mental illnesses.
Having the right combination of support in the community can make a huge difference to people’s ability to stay well, and lead an active and contributing life.
The initiative is part of the Government’s commitment to improve grassroots mental health support; and access the mental health support they need in their local communities.
Working with Neighbourhood Houses to build their capacity to provide support to people experiencing mental health issues will help to increase community understanding of mental illness leading to reduced stigma, and ensure those experiencing mental ill health feel welcomed and supported by their community.
Michael Ferguson, Minister for Health
