22 November 2007

Work starts on Sutherland mental health unit

The Iemma Government is delivering on its commitment to provide greater care for people with a mental illness with work starting on a 20-bed facility at Sutherland Hospital.

Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health) Paul Lynch and Member for Miranda Barry Collier today inspected work on the $8.18 million non-acute mental health unit.

Mr Lynch said construction of the new single storey unit was expected for completion in late 2008.

"The new non-acute mental health unit will provide specialist mental health beds and will support the hard work of staff to provide quality care," he said.

Mr Collier said the unit would provide greater access to mental health care in the Sutherland Shire.

"This unit will provide rehabilitation and recovery for patients over a six to twelve month period," he said.

"The aim of the service is to ensure people with a mental illness can recover and return to the community with appropriate support from community mental health services, GPs and other service providers," Mr Collier said.

The Sutherland works are part of the Iemma Government's record $1.05 billion Mental Health budget.

Mr Lynch said the Iemma Government was serious about providing the best care possible for people with a mental illness.

"Budget funding for this year has increased by 11 percent on the previous allocation," he said.

"The funding has a strong focus on improving mental health facilities and expanding beds and services," Mr Lynch said.

The Government has also allocated funds for the construction of non-acute mental health units at St George, Shellharbour, James Fletcher and Coffs Harbour hospitals.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au