Funding to help people experiencing mental illness into work
Headspace Townsville will continue to help locals experiencing mental illness into work following the extension of funding for the Individual Placement and Support Program.
The Townsville headspace site will continue to run the successful program to address barriers preventing people with mental illness from finding and keeping a job.
Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said the program integrates educational and workforce support with clinical mental health services, helping young people secure employment opportunities.
“This is an extremely valuable program that has helped plenty of locals get into work despite the difficulties they might be having with their mental health,” Mr Thompson said.
“As someone who’s experienced mental ill health, I know how important having a job and meaningful employment can be to getting back on track.
“I’m very pleased to have been able to help secure this $1.05 million to lock in the program for the next four years.”
Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the onset of mental illness in young people can significantly affect their ability to transition from study to work.
“This investment will provide ongoing local career assistance hand-in-hand with clinical support to help young people with mental illness enter the workforce and reach their full potential,” Minister Ruston said.
The Townsville headspace is one of 24 existing locations being extended, in addition to 26 new sites across Australia delivering the program.
Nationally, the ongoing and expanded Individual Placement and Support Program will allow more than 6,000 Australians under the age of 25 experiencing mental illness to access a range of specialist vocational and employment support services.
ENDS