The community of Northam and surrounds will benefit from a new Head to Health site expected to open in June. Northam Head to Health will offer immediate free advice, support and, if needed, assessment and treatment for people with stress, anxiety and other mental health issues.
WA Primary Health Alliance has selected Holyoake as the lead agency to establish and operate the site following a competitive tender procurement process. The site will be located at 133 Fitzgerald Street East, Northam.
The national expansion of Head to Health mental health services means more communities will benefit from this easy to access, essential mental health initiative that operates on a walk-in basis, with no referral needed.
Senator the Hon Sue Lines said this new Head to Health adult mental health site will provide much needed support for the community of Northam and surrounding areas.
“Head to Health makes mental health support accessible for people no matter where they live, particularly regions where seeking support is still taboo.
“The Albanese Labor Government is making access to mental health care a priority.”
WA Primary Health Alliance Executive General Manager Commissioned Services, Mark Cockayne, said Head to Health removes some of the most significant barriers to accessing appropriate and timely mental health care in the community through creating a single point of entry that connects people to the most appropriate support services without requiring a referral or appointment.
“Holyoake is an experienced, well-resourced and well-connected service provider. They will be working closely with the local community and health services to ensure the service meets their needs and is well integrated into existing health and social service networks.”
Holyoake CEO, Lorraine Keane, said Holyoake is excited to be working with WA Primary Health Alliance to deliver this much needed service to the community of Northam and broader Wheatbelt region.
“Building on Holyoake’s long history in the community, our experience on the frontline of mental health recovery and preventions tells us that when we come together – as individuals and families, specialists and practitioners, partners, and collaborators – our impact is amplified. We encourage community to engage with the service and welcome you to a non-judgemental and safe space.
“With a dedicated team of mental health professionals including nursing, allied health and lived experience peer support workers, Head to Health simplifies access to quality mental health services, supporting people with moderate to high levels of mental health need. We are also delighted to be working with WA Country Health Service to support the community through this critical service.
“Enabling people to walk in and receive free care and support from a multi-disciplinary team is vital to a region with complex mental health challenges, receiving short to medium episodes of care from arrival to whenever they are ready to leave.”
In WA, Midland Head to Health opened in 2022 while sites in Armadale, Gosnells and Mirrabooka opened in 2023.
This new site is part of a wider range of Head to Health services funded by the Australian Government available to the community including the Head to Health Assessment and Referral Phone Service 1800 595 212, Head to Health sites, and Head to Health website.
This activity has been made possible through funding provided by the Australian Government under the PHN Program.