- Central location confirmed for Pilbara mental health facility
- Step Up/Step Down service to provide residential-based mental health care, close to home for regional communities
- Early Contractor Involvement awarded to ADCO Constructions
A new adult mental health facility planned for South Hedland will provide an integral component of care for adults experiencing a change in their mental health.
The community-based Step Up/Step Down (SUSD) service will provide patients with short-term residential care in a home-like setting that is close to their family and friends.
Once established, the purpose-built facility will be located on Hamilton Street, close to the town centre and local amenities.
SUSD South Hedland will feature 10 residential units, communal spaces and designated areas for group activities.
Residents will receive a range of mental health services such as counselling and therapy for up to 28 days.
The SUSD model of care was designed to bridge the gap between hospital and home by teaching people strategies to manage their wellbeing to avoid a hospital stay.
The service will also cater for people who previously received treatment in hospital but no longer require an acute level of care.
Additional support will be available to help people re-establish themselves in their home and community by building healthy routines and coping strategies.
The Cook Labor Government has awarded an Early Contractor Involvement contract to ADCO Constructions, which will allow it to participate in in the design phase, leveraging its expertise in the approach to construction and the engagement of local subcontractors.
As stated by Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"The Cook Labor Government has worked closely with the Town of Port Hedland, residents and stakeholders to ensure the site meets the local and cultural needs of the Pilbara community.
"The South Hedland service will help support people during their recovery by providing accommodation in a safe and therapeutic environment without the need to travel far from home."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"The purpose-built facility will ensure people in Hedland can access residential mental health care close to home.
"Bringing the contractor along in the early stages of the design phase will create a more collaborative and streamlined process in the delivery of this important project."
