The Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors Suicide Prevention Taskforce has unveiled an innovative community-led suicide prevention model aimed at improving mental health care in the Greater Whitsunday region.
The Pathways Connect model is designed to work in alignment with all existing services, community groups and initiatives within the region.
"What has been developed is a community-led, early intervention suicide prevention pilot model, co-designed by community, industry, and government representatives from across the Greater Whitsunday footprint, and is intended to help our people find the right option, at the right time,” said Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson.
The Taskforce was established in response to the regions’ concerns about escalating suicide rates and the difficulties residents face in accessing appropriate mental health services.
"The most important aspect of this model is getting people to the right assistance or service for their individual situation,” said Lived Experience Representative Emma Rix.
“If we can do this, not only will it create a better experience for those who are struggling, but we will also ease the pressure on the services we have in the community.”
Over the course of 2022, Greater Whitsunday Communities worked alongside a diverse range of community members and service providers to design an outreach model to create better access to mental health resources.
“By providing early intervention and support through trained peers, it (the Pathways Connect model) enhances access to mental health services and aims to prevent suicide in the region,” said Greater Whitsunday Communities Executive Officer Carol Norris.
Greater Whitsunday Communities is now seeking financial contributions and partnerships to begin implementation of the pilot model, with the intention of working in alignment with all existing services, community groups and initiatives.
The Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors Suicide Prevention Project Co-design Report can be publicly accessed at the Greater Whitsunday Communities website: www.greaterwhitsundaycommunities.org.au.
If this story raises any issues, please visit your regular GP, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, present at one of Mackay Hospital and Health Services’ Mental Health Units or, in a crisis, emergency departments.
Back row L-R Fiona Bobongie, Courtney Wilson, Carol Norris, Karin Barron, Mackay Deputy Mayor Karen May, Deb Rae, Stephanie Zweers, Front L-R Whitsunday Mayor Julie Hall, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Isaac Mayor Anne Baker. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
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