Lilydale’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Local is a new, progressive mental health and wellbeing service that is coming later this year, and the front door service needs the community’s valuable insights to shape its development.
Wanting to create spaces that feel welcoming and comfortable, offering programs that meet you and the community’s needs. If you live in Yarra Ranges, they want to hear from you.
The Local will be running a series of consultation groups across April where you will be able to share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas with the lived experience team.
Local Services lived experience coordinator Anita Conlon said this is your call to help design a service that truly resonates with you and your community.
“Whether you’re currently managing mental health and wellbeing concerns or are on your path to recovery, your experience matters,” she said.
“I’m interested in hearing about the barriers you’ve faced in accessing help, the services you believe would benefit you and your community and the type of environment in which you would feel most at ease seeking assistance.
“By sharing your insights with us, you will help create a space that supports mental health and wellbeing for everyone.”
Ms Conlon has facilitated similar consultation groups for Local Services across Victoria and said they offer mutual benefits.
“All participants have found the experience rewarding. It offers them a chance to meet and connect with other community members, share their life experiences and skills,” she said.
“We get a lot done in just a few sessions but also reconvene in the future to see how we’ve implemented your feedback.
“There’s nothing like seeing the results of this collaboration come to life when the doors finally open.”
The Local will be based in Lilydale once fully operational but will service the outer eastern suburbs for people over the age of 26.
It was one of nine to be announced in October by the State Government as part of its response to the Royal Commission’s recommendations.
Until the open door service is available, project lead Wellways along with Eastern Health, Inspiro Health, Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation began offering free telehealth support in December.
Community collaboration groups will consist of six to eight participants and each participant will be compensated for their time. Expressions of interest will be accepted until all positions are filled.
For more information or to register your interest, simply call our Lived Experience Coordinator Anita Conlon on 0427 649 254 or email at aconlon@wellways.org
