Townsville Head to Health, run by Neami National and funded by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) through the Australian Government’s PHN program, provides a front door for anyone seeking mental health support for themselves, a friend, or family member, without needing a referral or appointment, and with no out-of-pocket costs.

The centre is located centrally at 32 Walker Street, Townsville and will be open 10am-10pm Monday to Friday, and 12pm-8pm on weekends, starting from next Thursday 27 January.

Web and phone supports are available now through the centre, which softly commenced in December 2021.

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Robin Whyte said this new service is designed to provide Townsville residents with increased access to immediate mental health supports.

“Townsville Head to Health is designed to provide a central point to provide residents with information and support, and to connect them with existing local services in the region,” said Ms Whyte.

“The service provides a welcoming, safe, and inclusive space, that embraces a ‘no wrong door’ approach to assist people to receive the right support, in the right place, at the right time for both their immediate needs and to establish connections to ongoing support.

“Adult residents within the Townsville region experiencing mental health crisis or distress are able to access the service without an appointment or by calling ahead to speak with the team before arriving.

“Family and friends of a person in distress or in need of support are also encouraged to seek assistance for their loved one by contacting Townsville Head to Health.

“Referrals to the service will also be accepted from GPs, community service organisations, and primary care providers.

“We are proud to work in collaboration with Neami National to bring Head to Health to Townsville, to help residents live happier, healthier, longer lives.”

Neami National is the lead service provider for the centre and works in partnership with locally based specialist services Richmond Fellowship Queensland, Lives Lived Well, and Townsville Multicultural Support Group, with support from NQPHN.

Neami National Chief Executive Officer Tom Dalton said collaboration was key to establishing the centre and ensuring it is suitable to the needs of locals.

“Townsville Head to Health is the combination of working closely with NQPHN and our partners and being responsive to the feedback and input from the local community,” said Mr Dalton.

“We hope to create a trusted service that meets the evolving needs of the people of Townsville.

“I encourage the community to visit the centre to see the warm and welcoming space and the support they can offer you, either now or in the future.

“Many of the staff have a lived experience of mental health issues themselves and are passionate about helping people find the right care for their individual needs.”

Townsville Head to Health is one of eight trial sites across Australia, announced as part of the Australian Government’s $2.3 billion National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.

Individuals can access Townsville Head to Health by calling (07) 4766 8444, visiting headtohealth.neaminational.org.au/townsville/townsville-head-to-health, or in person from next Thursday (27 January) at 32 Walker Street, Townsville.