One of Australia’s largest community services and mental health support providers, Uniting Vic.Tas, has welcomed the final report of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System released today in State Parliament.
Uniting Vic.Tas CEO Bronwyn Pike said of the recommendations, it was particularly important there was greater recognition of the need to improve treatment and outcomes for those with dual diagnosis.
Ms Pike said the Uniting Vic.Tas service model provided clients with a ‘one stop shop’ whether people with mental health issues could also address housing, employment or alcohol and drug treatment with the one organisation.
“We’re pleased the Commission included a number of our recommendations, including increased investment in early intervention and prevention and improved co-ordination of clinical and community mental health services,” Ms Pike said.
“Sadly, we’ve seen a sharp rise in demand for our mental health and crisis support services over the past 12 months, so it’s never been more important to invest in mental health.
“As one of Victoria’s leading mental health support agencies, we stand ready to partner with the Government to implement the recommendations included in the report.”
Uniting Vic.Tas Alcohol, Other Drugs and Mental Health General Manager Laurence Alvis told the inquiry about the need for better integration between mental health and alcohol and drug services.
“About 70 per cent of our clients have both mental health and alcohol and other drug issues, so it’s important these links have been recognised,” Mr Alvis said.
“If a client presents seeking treatment for alcohol or drug addiction, they will often not only have issues with their mental health, but also housing or employment, all of which are impacting on their lives.
“The holistic and integrated service model approach we have at Uniting Vic.Tas to dealing with all of the issues in people’s lives is the key to giving vulnerable people renewed hope, a path to recovery and better days ahead.”
You can read Uniting’s submission to the enquiry here
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Cameron Tait 0407 801 231 – [email protected]
