Youth mental health centre under Liberals

FEDERAL candidate for Corangamite Stephanie Asher has made a pledge to fund a satellite Headspace centre in Bannockburn if the Liberals are elected this month.

Headspace provides low-cost mental health support services for young people.

“With a focus on early intervention, Headspace works with young people at a crucial time in their lives to provide the best possible health care and support, reducing the duration and impact of mental illness and helping them achieve their full potential,” Ms Asher said.

“In establishing a new service in Bannockburn, this recognises the growing needs of both Bannockburn and Inverleigh which are rapidly growing communities.

“This service will play an important role in helping Corangamite residents in Golden Plains to thrive in the coming years.”

Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson expects the facility would attract more mental health professionals to live and practice in the Golden Plains Shire, and assist 12 to 25 year olds.

“During the past 18 months, so many teenagers and young adults have struggled,” she said.

“By providing easy access to expert support in a safe and confidential environment, these new Headspace services will play an essential role in keeping the young people in our community well.”

The Bannockburn satellite facility would be established by the Western Victoria Primary Health Network.