Open Minds will be providing improved access to adults needing mental health support in the community of Lismore after being recently appointed as the lead agency of the Head to Health Hub in Lismore.
Open Minds commenced operating Lismore’s Head to Health Hub on 1 August and has extended its opening times making it even easier for local residents to access mental health support.
Head to Health Lismore offers free mental health support and has been established and funded by Healthy North Coast through the Primary Health Network (PHN) program.
Open Minds’ appointment affirms continuity of the Head to Health Hub in Lismore, which launched in March 2022 to provide much-needed mental health support to the community following the devastating flood event in the Northern Rivers region.
Open Minds Chief Operating Officer, Kate Johnson said Open Minds is set to deliver quality mental health support to the community.
“Open Minds proud 110-year history together with its strong reputation and expertise providing community mental health services, ensures we are well placed to continue providing a welcoming space for the Lismore community,” Kate said.
“This opportunity allows our dedicated team to expand on our service offering in the area to support even more people, particularly those impacted after the floods.
“We feel sure that the Head to Health Hub Lismore will continue to be a safe space for the community to feel comfortable accessing supports in the future,” she said.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer, Julie Sturgess, said that she was delighted to see the Head to Health service go from strength to strength as an entry point for assessment and treatment for people seeking mental health advice and support.
“With all that has been thrown at our community over the past two years, it’s really important people take that first step to prioritise their mental health, rather than push their concerns aside,” said Ms Sturgess.
Open Minds General Manager Integrated Mental Health NSW, Rik Barker has worked in Lismore for over 15 years and is thrilled with Open Minds recent appointment to lead agency.
“We’re looking forward to working with Healthy North Coast, the Local Health District (LHD), Aboriginal Medical Services (AMSs), SafeSide, and other general practice and community-based mental health services, and to becoming an even stronger and integrated partner in community mental health in Lismore,” Rik said.
The Lismore Head to Health Hub is located at Lismore Health Precinct, Southern Cross University, P Block North, Rifle Range Road, East Lismore 2480.
Referrals are not necessary, and walk-ins are welcome for those aged 18 and older.
For more information, free call 1800 595 212 or visit https://headtohealthnc.org.au/.