The West Coast District Health Board today announced that Pact West Coast has been selected as the successful provider of Mental Health consumer advisory and peer support services for the West Coast.
It is a requirement of the National Mental Health Sector Standards that consumers are involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation of mental health services. Consumer Advisors have previously been employed by the West Coast District Health Board Mental Health Service, however, a review of services indicated that consumers supported the services being provided in a community setting.
The service will establish and link into existing consumer networks throughout the West Coast region and work closely with the District Health Board, Maori services, alcohol and drug co-coordinators, child and adolescent mental health services, Supporting Families, Coast Care Trust and other non-government organisations "to ensure that mental health consumers views are reflected in the planning, implementation and evaluation of the mental health services" said Pact West Coast Regional Manager Helen Porter.
A peer support and peer advocacy service has also been funded by the West Coast District Health Board. This is a new service that service users and providers have requested and that national and international experience indicates will provide a valuable service to mental health consumers.
The establishment of the peer support and advocacy service will take several months, with recruitment and training of peer support staff to begin in October. A peer support worker will be employed in each of Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika (each working 8 hours per week). Peer support groups and networks will also be established throughout the West Coast.
For more information please contact
Bryan Jamieson
Community Liaison Officer
West Coast DHB
PO Box 387
Greymouth 7840
Phone (DDI): (03) 769-7665
Mobile: 027 245-9595
Email: