Joint effort to provide new mental health support services in the region

LISMORE residents will have greater access to mental health support, with the introduction of a specialist clinician and a new mobile crisis service to help ease the burden on hospital emergency departments.

The Suicide Prevention Outreach Team (SPOT) has begun operating from the Lismore Community Mental Health Service.

Comprising specially trained clinicians and peer workers, the team provides on-the-ground care for people experiencing crisis, suicidal distress, or who are at risk of self-harm.

Following an initial assessment via Lismore Base Hospital’s Emergency Department or the Mental Health Line, individuals can be referred to SPOT for support in their homes or other comfortable settings.

In addition, a new mental health clinician has joined the Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (PACER) program, working alongside Richmond Police Area Command and NSW Ambulance.

The initiative enables first responders to safely manage acute mental health incidents, improving outcomes for the community and reducing unnecessary emergency department visits.

“Mental health support is a top priority for me, and I am incredibly pleased to see these two vital services hit the ground in Lismore to provide the care our community deserves,” Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said.

“Having a specialist on the scene during an emergency ensures a compassionate, health-led response that de-escalates crisis situations and keeps people out of the ED when they can be better supported in the community. By providing mobile, on-the-ground care where people feel most comfortable, we are breaking down the barriers to accessing help.

“These investments are about making sure that when someone in our community reaches out for help, they get the right support, at the right time, right here at home.”

Anyone experiencing mental health concerns is urged to call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.