INCREASED mental health support for young people in the Hamilton area will be available with the opening of headspace Hamilton later this year.

Young people will soon be able to access services to support mental health, physical health (including sexual health) and the use of alcohol and other drugs.

With funding from the Commonwealth Government, through Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN), Brophy Family and Youth Services (BFYS) will commence the new service in December for young people aged 12 to 25 years.

Headspace services are currently being provided in two schools in Hamilton one day a week through funding from headspace National which will continue until the headspace Hamilton centre is established.

BFYS will draw on their experience delivering headspace services in Warrnambool for 14 years, a satellite service in Portland since 2018, and outreach services to Hamilton schools for over 10 years in establishing headspace Hamilton.

WVPHN chief executive, Rowena Clift, said she was delighted that such an experienced mental health provider was the successful candidate after what was a rigorous tender process.

“WVPHN and our partners at headspace National are very excited that headspace Hamilton has now been given the green light,” she said.

“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 acting chief executive, Julia Smith, said “the past few years have been challenging for many young people, including young people living in regional areas.”

“In tough times, young people in Hamilton and surrounding areas can turn to headspace for support with their mental health.

“Young people are resilient and with the right support can get back on track.”

Brophy chief executive, Francis Broekman, said “it was a privilege to be awarded the opportunity to deliver the headspace model in Hamilton which will offer many young people early intervention mental health strategies to build confidence, self-esteem and life skills towards reaching their goals and aspirations.”

Brophy executive manager, Penny Bolton, who will be overseeing the headspace team, said “we are seeking to engage young people and the community in the establishment and ongoing phases of the Centre.”

“We would like to invite any young people, family and friends to be part of creating this rural focused Centre that will support all young people in their journey to strengthen their mental health and wellbeing.”

Headspace Hamilton will be available to young people aged 12 to 25 years along with their family and friends to provide face-to-face information, support and services.

These services are free or low cost. Young people will be able to make an appointment with headspace directly, or via a GP referral. Headspace will also offer support to family and friends of a young person.