Council welcomes first step for youth mental health

Ongoing funding for a satellite headspace service in the City of Whittlesea announced this week is the first step in helping young people with their mental health.

Mayor Lawrie Cox said Council was pleased learn the Federal Government would fund a headspace satellite service in the City of Whittlesea but he said more was needed.

“We’ve had a headspace outpost trial which was due to end so it’s great news to hear it will now be extended into permanent satellite service,” he said.

“This will mean young people can find the support they need in their local area rather than having to drive to Greensborough or other centres in neighbouring municipalities.”

However, Cr Cox said the announcement stopped short of providing the full headspace service that the City of Whittlesea needed.

“Statistics show us that the need for youth mental health services is growing along with our population,” he said.

“Currently there is a four week wait for services at Headspace in Greensborough which is the nearest full service that services the City of Whittlesea area,” he said.

As assessment by the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network has identified Whittlesea as having the highest rate of people aged over 18 years with high or very high psychological distress; higher than the Victorian average.

“We’re keen to see a dedicated headspace centre be funded in the City of Whittlesea, rather than a satellite service, in the future as there is definitely the need in our community,” Cr Cox said.

“We will continue to fight for an ongoing permanent facility for youth mental health.”

Details of Council’s 2019 Federal Election advocacy campaign can be found online.