New free adult Mental Health Hub opens its doors in Nowra

People living in the Shoalhaven and surrounding communities can now access a free, new walk-in mental health service for adults who may be experiencing moderate psychological distress.

Developed in collaboration with the local community, the Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub is funded and supported by Primary Health Network COORDINARE and operated by Anglicare Sydney. The need for this service is confirmed by a recent census by the Shoalhaven City Council revealing that 16% of Nowra’s population and 11% of the Shoalhaven region remain impacted and affected by mental health.¹

Fiona Phillips MP said: “It is important more people in our region can get the help they need with the opening of the new Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub.

“This service is free and no appointment or referral is needed - walk ins are welcome to help connect you with the best service for your care needs or you can call the Hub directly. This Hub will improve access to and awareness of mental health care, especially for people who haven’t accessed mental health supports before,” she said.

According to Prudence Buist, CEO of COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN, “Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub is a safe and welcoming space to connect with if you, or someone you care about, is experiencing difficulties with their mental health or social and emotional wellbeing.

“The Shoalhaven service is one of five Mental Health Hubs and two Head to Health Centres opening in South Eastern NSW in 2024, funded by the Australian Government and commissioned by COORDINARE.

“The new Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub has been co-designed with services and the community to target local needs. Provided by Anglicare, the hub offers support to improve wellbeing and mental health, either in-person, over the phone, virtual or group sessions,” said Ms Buist.

Anglicare’s Andrew Ford, Chief Executive, Community and Mission said:  “We are delighted to be working closely with COORDINARE to meet community need through our multi-disciplinary service model, providing face-to-face and telehealth mental health services to clients of all ages.”

“The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and current cost of living stressors has seen an escalation in distress and support needs for families across the regions we service.

“We encourage anyone experiencing mental health issues to reach out and seek help as there is a range of support options available,” he said.

The Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub features a diverse team with a wide range of experiences, including mental health practitioners, peer workers, and Aboriginal mental health workers. This unique blend allows for tailored support to meet each individual's specific needs, ensuring a compassionate and understanding approach to mental health care. “We are proud to bring together a diverse team who are committed to making a difference to those experiencing mental health challenges. We aim to offer tailored support that addresses each individual's unique needs, ensuring that everyone who comes to the Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub receives the compassionate and effective care they deserve,” Mr Ford adds.

The Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub is co-located with Wellways, a community mental health support service funded by the Ministry of Health, to foster a collaborative approach in supporting the community. By working together, both organisations aim to provide integrated services that will improve mental health outcomes for individuals in the Shoalhaven region.

The Shoalhaven Mental Health Hub is located at 11 Haigh Avenue, Nowra. For more information and to access services, please contact 1800 841 190. Head to Health phoneline, Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm, 1800 595 212. Learn more: coordinare.org.au/community/head-to-health-and-mental-health-hubs/

Contact:

Lauren White, Head of Communications
lauren.white@anglicare.org.au