New mental health PACER clinician for Lismore

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the PACER position was a role that the community and local police valued highly. Photo: SUPPLIED

THE Northern NSW Local Health District is again recruiting for the Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (PACER) position.

A unique collaboration between Health, Police, and Ambulance Services, a mental health clinician within the local police command assists in responding to mental health emergencies.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the program played a vital role in supporting police officers when encountering individuals experiencing mental health crises.

“The PACER Clinician is a Clinical Nurse Consultant Grade 2 attached to the Richmond Police Command at Lismore Police Station,” Saffin said.

“This is something that I successfully lobbied to have in our region years ago, and the first PACER clinician started in July 2023.

“Unfortunately, after the clinician left in December 2023, the Local Health District said it faced challenges in recruiting a suitable replacement.

Funding is available for the position, and while active recruitment was paused for some time, Saffin has pushed for the position to be readvertised and filled urgently.

“This is a role that both the community and local police value highly,” Saffin said.

“The clinician will work directly with police, providing expert assessment and intervention in mental health emergencies.

“It’s a demanding position, but for the right candidate, it offers a chance to make a meaningful impact.”