The Australian Government is providing $500,000 to help establish a local program to support people with moderate to severe mental illness in the Frankston/Mornington Peninsula area.
The Kindred Clubhouse program provides a drop-in centre and is particularly important for people who may be reluctant to access the more traditional, clinical, appointment-based services.
The funding will be used to employ support staff who will run regular activities for Clubhouse members, and provide advice and support. It will also cover the administrative costs associated with running the Clubhouse.
Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP stated that the Clubhouse would provide support for the local community, as well as individuals facing a mental health challenge
“Programs such as the Kindred Clubhouse program are important to local communities, because, without them, many people who face the daily challenges of mental illness don’t have access to the support they need,” Minister Hunt said. “The results can be devastating for the individual, their families and the broader community.”
“The Clubhouse will provide important opportunities for people to socially interact, participate in meaningful activities and receive advice on employment, education, financial management, housing, maintaining physical wellbeing, and managing drug and alcohol addictions, including tobacco.
“This is a community-based program, designed to provide practical support and advice to help people with moderate to severe mental illness in their day-to-day lives.”
Federal Member for Dunkley, Chris Crewther MP, echoed Minister Hunt’s comments, saying the Clubhouse design would assist not only individuals, but the community as a whole.
“This program has been developed following extensive consultation with the community and stakeholders—the strong message coming through was that there was a definite need in the area for a program such as the Kindred Clubhouse model,” Mr Crewther said.
“Most importantly, it is a place to belong, where people can feel comfortable and are always welcome.”
“Both Greg and I know the importance of mental health and this funding will help provide a much greater level of support for the communities we represent.”
Mental health is one of the key pillars in the Australian Government’s long-term national health plan and the $338.1 million mental health package announced in this year’s Budget reinforces our commitment.