Expressions of interest are now open to help shape the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Local service.
The new mental health and wellbeing service is seeking input from residents in Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie and Moira to help develop programs that will help better meet the community’s needs.
Consultation groups will be run in March for the community to share their thoughts, experiences and ideas with the service, ahead of its opening later this year.
Local services lived experience co-ordinator Anita Conlon said this was a great opportunity to help design a service that resonated with the 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 offered mutual benefits.
“All participants have found the experience rewarding,” she said.
“It offers them a chance to meet and connect with other community members and share their life experiences and skills.
“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.”
Community collaboration groups will consist of six to eight participants, each being compensated for their time.
Those interested in being a part of the consultation groups can register interest by calling Anita Conlon at 0427 649 254 or emailing aconlon@wellways.org with registrations closing on Friday, March 1.