Bunbury is set to receive a new mental health facility in 2020 with additional funding for the project announced in this year’s state budget.
Health Minister Roger Cook said planning was already underway to establish a 10-bed community mental health step up/step down service in Bunbury.
“Discussions with City of Bunbury regarding design and building approvals have started, the service should open in early 2020,” he said.
“As part of the recent state budget $13.4 million was allocated to provide this vital step up/step down service in Bunbury, this includes additional operational funding of $2.2 million for 2021-22.”
Bunbury MLA Don Punch said the facility would be an important addition to available services.
“This service will be an essential part of a suite of mental health services that are able to respond appropriately to individual need,” he said.
“Bunbury has been waiting for this facility for a long time so I am really pleased the McGowan Government is now delivering the project.
“This facility will allow people living with a mental illness to receive support in their own community, to remain connected to their family and friends while getting the assistance they need to return to good health.”
Mr Punch said the scale of the facility had been developed in response to the 10 year mental health plan, which identified projected needs until at least 2025.
“Sub-acute mental health services fill the gap for people requiring care that extends beyond that which can be delivered in a home environment but for whom admittance to a psychiatric ward is not necessary,” he said.
“It also provides a transitional stepping stone for people who are ready to leave hospital care but not quite well enough to confidently return home.”
The facility will provide short-term residential support and care for people discharged from hospital and for those experiencing a change in their mental health to avoid the need for hospitalisation.
Doors Wide Open co-founder Lina Pugh said there was a chance those who had been through rehabilitation after drug use would have a mental health condition.
“Having a mental health treatment facility in the South West is absolutely fantastic and as good as having a drug rehabilitation centre,” she said.
If you need support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.