The LikeMind mental health initiative has been granted $11.2 million with some of the funding going towards helping vulnerable people in the Orange region.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
NSW Mental Health Minister Bronnie Taylor announced the funding for the innovative pilot program during a visit to Orange on Friday.
Orange was one of four LikeMind pilot sites, which were also set up at Penrith, Seven Hills and Wagga Wagga.
Since 2014, a total of $16.36 million had been provided for establishment of the four pilot sites.
The service has proven that people experiencing mental health issues benefit from their support being in one place.
- Mental Health Minister Bronnie Taylor
The extra funding announced on Friday would provide $900,000 per year to each of the LikeMind sites so they could continue to provide one-stop mental healthcare services for the next three years.
The LikeMind concept was about bringing together a range of clinical and psychological and social services to create one community space delivering a hub of support.
Mrs Taylor said people accessing the service reported an improvement in their health as a result of the support and interventions they received through the model.
"Almost half of all Australians experience a mental health issue at some point in their lifetime and I am extremely dedicated to increasing support and services available in the community when they are needed," Mrs Taylor said.
"The service has proven that people experiencing mental health issues benefit from their support being in one place.
"I'm always thrilled to support community collaboration as it is the smartest and best way to help our people."
The NSW government recently announced $2.1 billion in mental health services and infrastructure funding in the 2018 NSW Budget.
DO YOU WANT MORE ORANGE NEWS?
- Receive our free newsletters delivered to your inbox, as well as breaking news alerts. Sign up below ...