Mobile mental health service to deliver co-ordinated care

  • Mobile service for mental health care to homeless in Perth and Fremantle
  • $3.7 million over four years allocated to the Mobile Clinical Outreach Team
  • An innovative mental health service will continue to bring mental health care to the homeless populations of Perth and Fremantle with a funding extension granted by the McGowan Government.

    $3.7 million has been allocated to continue to deliver mental health triage, assertive outreach, clinical assessment and treatment via a Mobile Clinical Outreach Team (MCOT).

    The MCOT provided support to more than 120 clients on the streets of these two business districts, last year.

    The Team consists of a psychiatrist, social workers and mental health nurses, working closely with other specialist mental health staff, in partnership with local specialist homeless services, and other mental health, alcohol and drug services.

    They assist people to transition into more stable settings, such as community mental health services, and enable early intervention and care for mental health issues, which reduces the likelihood of re-entry into acute services such as hospitals.

    For urgent clinical support, call the Mental Health Emergency Response Line on 1300 555 788 (Metro), 1800 676 822 (Peel) or 1800 552 002 (Rural). In a crisis call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or for free counselling, call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

    As stated by Mental Health Minister Roger Cook:

    “It’s important for all of us to be mindful of our mental health and wellbeing and if issues arise, to address them and seek help if needed.

    “It is no different for our homeless population, who can find it extra challenging to seek support through the usual mainstream primary care and mental health pathways.”

    “This service is one part of the system, that will ensure we as a community can help identify and address mental health issues early, enabling people to find pathways to healthy, productive and fulfilling lives.”

    As stated by Community Services Minister Simone McGurk:

    “The McGowan Government is committed to supporting people experiencing homelessness and understands the complexity of this issue.

    “That is why, as we focus on helping people to permanently exit homelessness, we are also investing in a range of measures to ensure immediate delivery of specialist services to those in need.

    “This funding will enable the Mobile Clinical Outreach Team to continue its important work in Perth and Fremantle providing vulnerable Western Australians with timely access to mental health care.”

    Mental Health Minister’s office – 6552 6500

    /Public Release. View in full here.