Major funding boost for Headspace Hervey Bay program

HEADSPACE Hervey Bay has received funding from the Federal Government to the tune of $1-million to boost its Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt (centre), Sam Howard and Chantelle Whitehead from Headspace Hervey Bay give the IPS program the thumbs up. PHOTO: Shaun Ryan.

Federal Member for Hinkler and Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt dropped by the centre in Hervey Bay for a tour of the local facility this afternoon.

“The Commonwealth has provided a million Dollars out until 2024 to continue supporting the Individual Placement Support Program for individuals aged between 15 and 25-years who suffer from mental illness,” Mr Pitt said.

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“It is about working with youth and young adults who suffer from mental illness to assist them into workplaces.

“I think this is a great program and am really pleased to support it,” Mr Pitt continued.

IPS Supervisor for Headspace Hervey Bay Sam Howard said they were thrilled to receive the additional funding.

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“It is wonderful for our youth here in Hervey Bay and Maryborough. The funding will help expand our program that has already been running for two years,” Mr Howard said.

“We’ve seen hundreds of our youth get employment, study, access the community and get more independence in their lives from the program. It really is great to see.”

Mr Howard said the funding would allow them to see more people who need Headspace services and programs.

“The vocational programs work alongside clinical and other community services. It’s a great way to help youth holistically, by working together, to improve their lives.”

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The IPS program helps young people aged 12 to 25 with a range of services, including job preparation, writing resume and cover letters, employment opportunities and follow along support.

The program also helps people access information about studying, career direction and coaching, Centrelink and job services and community-based appointments, among other things.

For more information on Headspace, click here.