A new support service for young people is available locally. The free counselling service is open to young people aged 12 to 25 years living in the Macedon Ranges and offers the option of meeting with a counsellor at a location that suits the young person.
Thanks to funding from Bendigo Bank’s Gisborne and District Community Bank, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health has employed a new mental health outreach worker who is engaging with schools and families and helping young people work through matters affecting their wellbeing such as relationship challenges, identity issues, grief and health concerns.
“We hope to reduce the barriers for local young people accessing mental health support,” says Danielle Bell at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health. “We can help with anxiety, depression or any stressful life event that is impacting your ability to attend school, work, or affecting the enjoyment of your usual day-to-day activities.”
Danielle comes to the role with social work background and has had a number of youth support roles including in foster care, crisis accommodation, schools and in the prison sector. We know how hard it can be to take that first step towards seeking help,” Danielle says.
“Cost and waiting lists can be a barrier as well as finding a counsellor that you can see discretely at a place and a time that suits you.”
If you or someone you know would benefit from this service, call 5421 1666 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, or email intake.kyneton@scchc.org.au. No GP referral or mental health plan required. If you are in a crisis situation and need to speak to someone urgently, you can find a list of contact numbers at www.sunburycobaw.org.au/crisis-contact-details.
