Works begin on Swanston Centre upgrade

BUILDING works are now under way to redevelop Barwon Health’s Swanston Centre, paving the way for a new model of care for mental health, drug and alcohol services.
The project will modernise the layout of the central Geelong facility to improve safety and provide better care, with a high dependency unit for specialist care.
Associate Professor Steve Moylan, clinical director of Barwon Health’s mental health, drugs and alcohol services, said the refurbishment, due for completion late next year, was the result of consulting with staff, clients, their families and carers.
“We are very excited about the improvements and outcomes this will bring to our care at Barwon Health.
“In this time of uncertainty, we all have a role to play in caring for our community. We can all reach out to support our loved ones to help their mental health; however, there are times when professional help is needed, and Barwon Health is here for those times.
“More than ever, it is important for our community to know they are supported and cared for, with access to the safest and highest quality health services.
“We have spent a long time talking to our staff, consumers, and their carers about how the Swanston Centre can be improved to offer better mental health, drugs and alcohol support.
“The redevelopment will improve the facility’s layout to better meet the safety needs of clients, with a high dependency unit that will provide specialist care for those most in need.”
The Swanston Centre will continue to operate during construction, with minimal interruption to services.