This morning we had the privilege of visiting the new WHOS Hawkesbury, alongside Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman MP. This free service, funded by us through the Federal Government’s Community Health and Hospitals Program, plays a crucial role in supporting people within their own community.

We know that alcohol and other drug issues don’t discriminate, and anyone can be impacted. There has been a lack of permanent and accessible services offering affordable or free community-based support in Hawkesbury, and we are pleased that this service is available to address this need.

When it comes to supporting people with AOD issues, residential rehabilitation services aren’t always the best fit for everyone. Some people have responsibilities that prevent them from being able to commit to a residential program and this can act as a barrier to seeking help. That is why community-based support is so important. People need to be able to seek support and get well within their own community.

In our region alone, over 2,000 people received treatment at an AOD service funded by us last year. Our most recent Needs Assessment highlights that alcohol is the most common substance of concern, affecting over a quarter of those treated.

At WHOS Hawkesbury, clients benefit from a wide range of services, including comprehensive AOD support, structured group work, counselling, case management, GP liaison, relapse prevention, access to services including housing and welfare, and a free breakfast and lunch daily.

We have long advocated for more services based in the Hawkesbury community, that are accessible and provide wrap-around support for individuals with complex needs. We're excited to continue working with WHOS, the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and other local community organisations to ensure this new service is integrated with local health services.

If you’re in need of support, visit our website to find out what other services are available in your area.

Pictured from L to R: Scott Hassett - Operations Manager WHOS Treatment Services, Kirsty Mcleod - Wentworth Healthcare Clinical Services Manager, Mental Health, Lizz Reay - Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Kylie Barbaschow - Community Services Worker, WHOS, Anne Rogers - Wentworth Healthcare Commissioning and Contracts Officer, Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs, Wentworth Healthcare , Melissa O’Sullivan - Community Services Worker, WHOS, Gerard Byrne - Operations Manager WHOS Treatment Services, and Susan Templeman MP, Federal Member for Macquarie.