A NEW youth mental health provider has been appointed to operate headspace Geelong following an extensive tender process run by Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN).<\/p>\n
Stride Mental Health Limited – which presently operates seven headspace centres in Queensland and New South Wales, including one satellite centre – has won the tender.<\/p>\n
WVPHN says Stride has demonstrated a strong understanding of the headspace model and the youth stream of mental health care.<\/p>\n
A $2.8 million federal government investment will see headspace Geelong operations transition to Stride over the next few months, and will also formalise the establishment of a new service in Corio and provide the ongoing support of headspace Ocean Grove and Drysdale.<\/p>\n
WVPHN chief executive officer Rowena Clift said she was delighted that such an experienced mental health service provider was the successful candidate after what was a rigorous tender process.<\/p>\n
\u201cStride has a demonstrated history of successfully operating headspace centres and satellites as well as managing transitions of service.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn Queensland and New South Wales they have worked successfully and cohesively with both state and commonwealth governments with regard to regional specific requirements.<\/p>\n
\u201cTheir track record engenders strong confidence that we have an outstanding mental health service provider for our local youth.<\/p>\n
\u201cStride have also demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian state mental health policy reforms in the context of delivering headspace services.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey have good relationships with Victoria-based mental health organisations and are committed to extensive local engagement with young people, mental health service providers and other stakeholders.\u201d<\/p>\n
Acting chief executive officer of Stride, Drikus van der Merwe, said his organisation was excited by the opportunity to continue its long-standing work in supporting young people with their mental health.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe look forward to working with the local youth reference group, consortia and to becoming a strong partner in community mental health in Geelong.\u201d<\/p>\n
WVPHN has commissioned multiple headspace centres throughout western Victoria to provide an additional option for young people seeking support in their local community.<\/p>\n
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 in four key areas: mental health, physical and sexual health, vocational support, and alcohol and other drug support.<\/p>\n
For more information on headspace and the location of their centres, head to their website.<\/p>\n