Headspace has welcomed a major funding boost to help more young people at-risk of falling in between the cracks.
The federal government is increasing funding to the Australian youth health service provider by about 50 per cent in the next financial year.
Nationally, Headspace will receive $51.8 million extra funding in 2019/20.
A total of $39 million that will go towards improving its existing centres. There is a centre at Hurstville and at Miranda.
The organisation provides more than counselling – it offers help to young people who feel stressed, are struggling with schooling or bullying, want to cut down on alcohol or drug use, or face difficulties in sexuality, identity or relationships.
More money means greater ability to support youth in the area by reducing wait times for service, and providing additional clinical staff who can meet with more people in need.
“With increasing rates of distress being reported by young people it has never been more important to boost the capacity of headspace services on the ground and online,” headspace spokeswoman Simone Williams said.
“When support is accessed in early stages of distress, young people are best placed to recover quickly and learn lifelong coping strategies.
“This investment strengthens headspace core services to ensure more young people can access support tailored to their needs.”
Headspace also recently celebrated its national event to support the mental health and well-being of young Australians.
Youth gathered together in the name of art, to collaborate on a large, colourful drawing, where they each had some creative input.
It matched this year’s event theme, ‘add a little colour to your day’.
