What’s happening?
Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), in partnership with Mackay and Townsville Hospital and Health Services (HHSs), has announced Wellways as the provider of a universal aftercare service.
The service will deliver vital psychosocial support to people aged 15 and older who have attempted suicide or are experiencing a suicidal crisis in the greater Mackay and Townsville regions, including rural and remote areas.
The service also provides specific psychosocial services for families, friends, and carers.
Why it Matters?
Suicide prevention is a pressing health concern in North Queensland. Many individuals face complex life challenges that can lead to suicidal crises.
The new service aims to keep individuals connected with both clinical and non-clinical support networks, offering timely and personalised care.
NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Sean Rooney highlighted the importance of this initiative: “We recognise that suicide prevention is an important health need for our community given the complex life issues that some North Queenslanders experience.”
He added: “We are pleased to be able to provide additional services and support for those experiencing suicidal issues and, importantly, support for their family and loved ones.”
By the Numbers
– Coverage: Mackay, Townsville, rural, and remote areas
– Operational hours: Weekdays from 9am to 6pm
– Commencement: October 2024
– Partnership: NQPHN, Wellways, and Mackay and Townsville HHSs
– Funding: Commonwealth and State Governments’ Bilateral Schedule on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
Zoom in
The service, delivered by Wellways, will offer both clinical and psychosocial support, building on their previous success in Cairns.
Wellways Chief Executive Officer Laura Collister shared her commitment to expanding the service: “Wellways is proud to once again partner with Northern Queensland PHN and Queensland Health to provide vital aftercare support services for individuals experiencing suicidality in Townsville and Mackay.”
She also noted: “Our extensive network in Townsville and Mackay, from the suicide prevention community capacity-building work we do there, will enable us to quickly begin offering support, hope, and life-changing outcomes for individuals, their families, and carers.”
Zoom Out
Once established, the universal aftercare service will become an essential part of the mental health framework in North Queensland, allowing referrals from hospital emergency departments, mental health services, and other approved health services.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon also welcomed the initiative, noting the profound community-wide effects of suicide: “The addition of the universal aftercare service to the Mackay region strengthens existing suicide prevention initiatives in the healthcare system and broader community.”
Local Impact
The Mackay and Townsville regions have been significantly impacted by mental health challenges.
The introduction of this universal aftercare service strengthens local suicide prevention efforts, offering person-centred, proactive support for individuals and their carers.
What to Look for Next
The service will begin operations in October 2024, with referrals from emergency departments and mental health services ensuring that individuals in crisis receive seamless and comprehensive support during their recovery journey.
This initiative is a critical step forward for the region, addressing the need for timely, culturally appropriate, and effective aftercare for those affected by suicidal crises.