In a good space: Work starts on headspace satellite service in Ocean Grove

WORK has started at the site that will house Ocean Grove’s satellite branch of headspace, which is slated to open within three months.

The satellite service is a collaboration between Barwon Child, Youth & Family (BCYF), Bellarine Community Health, and the Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) and will be based at Bellarine Community Health’s operations in Presidents Avenue.

Young people will be able to get access to services by contacting headspace Ocean Grove direct or be referred by a GP, a family member or friend.

The national youth mental health foundation is open to young people aged 12 to 25 along with their families and friends to provide face-to-face information, support and services. These services are generally free of charge.

“WVPHN and our partners at headspace National are very excited that the opening of headspace Ocean Grove is set to come in the next three months,” WVPHN chief executive officer Rowena Clift said.

“Breaking down barriers for young people accessing mental health support and helping foster better relationships with their natural support networks is key to the health and wellbeing of our young people and we are proud to be providing even greater access to appropriate mental health care for them.”

Bellarine Community Health are hiring staff for the new headspace service as the refurbishment takes place, with an exact opening date to be determined as the work progresses.

“One in four young Australians will experience a mental health issue but when help is sought early, young people are best placed to recover quickly and that’s why it’s crucial they have somewhere they can go for support,” headspace chief executive officer Jason Trethowan said.

“headspace Geelong has played a critical role in the community for many years, providing vital support to young people and families in the local area.

“We’re delighted that this can soon be extended to the Ocean Grove community via this new satellite.”

BCYF chief executive officer Sandy Morrison said his organisation welcomed the opportunity to further support young people on the Bellarine to get access to mental health services.

“This satellite will allow young people on the Bellarine to stay within their own community to access the assistance they need, addressing key mental health, physical health (including sexual health) and alcohol and other drugs,” he said.

“headspace Ocean Grove is an extension of headspace Geelong, building upon BCYF’s core vision of a community where children, young people and their families are safe, connected and empowered to live well.”

Corangamite federal member Libby Coker said last week’s announcement was a “welcome step forward for a region that we know has been struggling with youth mental health issues”.

“There has been a spike in the cases of youth suicide on the Bellarine, which is a tragedy. The pandemic and the associated lockdown have only served to exacerbate the situation.”