A space for support

BETTER youth mental health support is on the way to Armstrong Creek with Stride Mental Health announced as the successful provider for the new headspace facility in the area.

The experienced operator will work with headspace National and Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) to establish the centre, with the hope of opening at a suitable location within Armstrong Creek next year.

The announcement follows an $4.8 million election commitment made by Corangamite federal member Libby Coker ahead of last year’s federal election.

The service will provide mental health, physical health, sexual health and alcohol and drug support.

Stride Mental Health chief executive officer Drikus van der Merwe said his organisation was delighted to be selected as the operator of the new Armstrong Creek headspace site.

“We currently support young people in the community via headspace Geelong and a satellite site in Corio, and we look forward to engaging with the community on the development of this new centre.

“It’s wonderful to be partnering with Western Victoria Primary Health Network to expand the mental health services available to young people in south Geelong and the surrounding region.”

headspace chief executive officer Jason Trethowan said the trusted service would give Armstrong Creek locals better access to support.

“Young people are resilient. We know with the right support they can get through tough times and get back on track.

“We are proud that headspace, a service trusted by young people, will be able to provide support to the local community, in a comfortable and welcoming environment.”

WVPHN chief executive officer Rowena Clift also threw her support behind Stride as the successful provider.

“Breaking down barriers for young people accessing mental health support and helping foster better relationships with their natural support networks is key to the health and wellbeing of our youth.

“We are proud to be providing even greater access to appropriate mental health care for them.”

headspace is available to young people aged 12 to 25 years, along with their family to provide face-to-face information, support and services.

Help is also available via phone and online at headspace.org.au seven days a week between 9am and 1am.

headspace has existing facilities in Corio, Geelong’s CBD and Ocean Grove.