LikeMind has hit back against claims it could crash and burn just months after its launch.
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It follows mental health professionals’ reports the newly established mental health care facility was having difficulty recruiting staff and comes after the arrival of a Queensland “fix-it” team.
It was also alleged infighting and bullying at the state-government’s Community Mental Health had impacted operations.
However, the “shadow of doubt” cast this week was immediately denied.
The $2.3 million Baylis Street centre – operated by Aftercare – was designed to be a “one-stop-shop” for mental health support, offering a range of health professionals and care services under one roof.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District mental health and drug and alcohol director Robyn Manzie and Aftercare integrated services general manager Amelia Callaghan “strongly refuted” allegations about infighting and bullying impacting’s LikeMind’s ability to get off the ground in Wagga.
In a collaborative statement, they said a “very strong relationship” existed between both organisations and the LikeMind service was fully operational.
“Recruitment for several vacant positions is underway and Aftercare is confident of filling these roles,” they said.
“People are able to access a range of services under one roof, including mental health, drug and alcohol, physical health and social needs such as links to employment, vocational training and housing.”
LikeMind is funded by NSW Health to provide integrated mental health care for adults with each service operated by a non-government lead agency.
Wagga is one of two regional pilot sites, with the other located in Orange. Centres are also located in Penrith and Seven Hills in Sydney.