Wellways has been selected by the Commonwealth and State Governments to lead two universal aftercare services in North Queensland. These services will be provided in partnership with the Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) and Townsville and Mackay Hospital and Health Services (HHSs).
The universal aftercare service offers timely psychosocial support to individuals aged 15 and above who have either attempted suicide or are experiencing a suicidal crisis. The service aims to keep individuals connected to both clinical and non-clinical support networks as they navigate their recovery journey. In addition to helping the individual, the service extends support to families, friends, and other support systems.
Wellways will deliver services in two regions, including rural and remote areas:
- Mackay, in partnership with NQPHN and Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS)
- Townsville, in partnership with NQPHN and Townsville Hospital and Health Service (HHS)
Laura Collister, Wellways’ CEO, shared her enthusiasm about working with NQPHN and Queensland Health again:
“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 Mackay and Townsville,” Ms Collister said.
The two new services are funded under the Commonwealth and State Governments’ Bilateral Schedule on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. These services are an extension of the original trial conducted in Cairns, where Wellways serves as the provider.
Ms Collister added:
“Our partnership has a strong foundation delivering these services in Cairns. Our extensive network in Mackay and Townsville, 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,”
Wellways will deliver support in the Townsville and Mackay areas between 9am and 6pm on weekdays. Universal aftercare services will begin in October 2024.