headspace formally opens Ocean Grove site

OCEAN Grove’s headspace has taken a big step in its early days following the site’s launch last Friday.

The official opening of headspace Ocean Grove has formally marked the culmination of a collaboration involving young people, community health organisations, healthcare providers, and members of both local and federal governments.

The event involved a Welcome to Country from Wadawurrung Elder, Corrina Eccles, stories from young people in the headspace Youth Futures Crew about what it means to have a headspace in the community, and a special visit from Greg Hunt, Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care.

“This is an exciting time for Bellarine Community Health,” Bellarine Community Health CEO Gary Ellis said.

“We have been given the opportunity to provide support and services to many young people on the Bellarine Peninsula.

“I am sure we all recognise the need for a facility such as this to provide easy access and support for those who need it.”

Since headspace Ocean Grove opened its doors in August 2021 it has received a steady stream of referrals with close to 1,300 appointments already made for young people, their families and their friends.

The official opening of headspace Ocean Grove means more young people across the Bellarine Peninsula will now be able to access services to support mental health, physical health, including sexual health, and alcohol and other drugs.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the new service is part of the Morrison Government’s $111.3 million commitment to establish 30 new headspace services across the country.

“We know that the pandemic and the measures taken to contain it have been incredibly difficult and stressful for many Australians, and particularly younger Australians,” Minister Hunt said.

“That is why we are prioritising mental health support, ensuring that young people have access to care to help them recover and reach their full potential as we reopen the country.”

headspace Ocean Grove has also joined forces with Barwon Child, Youth & Family (BCYF), Bellarine Community Health (BCH), headspace Geelong, Stride Mental Health Limited and commissioning body, Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) to ensure the service is safe and appropriate for local young people, their families and friends.

“WVPHN is proud to collaborate with BCYF, BCH, Stride and headspace National to provide young people greater access to appropriate mental health care with the official launch of headspace Ocean Grove,” WVPHN CEO Rowena Clift said.

“Breaking down barriers for young people seeking support is central to nurturing the health and wellbeing of our youth.”

Young people can access support by contacting headspace Ocean Grove direct or via referral from a GP, a family member, or a friend.

headspace is available to young people aged 12 to 25 years along with their families and friends to provide face-to-face information, support, and services.

These services are generally free of charge.

Head to www.headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/ocean-grove/ to gain access to more information.