The new headspace Manjimup is taking shape, with work starting on the centre, a new team in place, and lots of opportunities to connect with the local community in the Warren Blackwood region.
The team has now grown to four incredible people who are passionate about young people and mental health, and we’ll be recruiting for an additional four roles before the centre opens. We are excited to introduce the team so far:
- Emily Dewar – Centre Manager
- Paul Escott – Clinical Lead
- Aly Giblett – Senior Administrator
- Andrew Binsiar Jnr – Community Engagement Officer
The team have done an incredible job hitting the ground running, engaging with young people and the community and working alongside WA Primary Health Alliance and headspace National to get the centre ready for young people later in the year.
In early February, Emily and Andrew, had the opportunity to spend time with young people from Manjimup Senior High School to discuss the centre, and how their voices can help shape it. This is a space designed for young people in the region, which is why connecting with those we will support in the planning process, and involving them across the decision making process is essential to ensure that we create a space that is welcoming, comfortable and safe. This consultation session was highly engaging, and we were so glad to see the shared enthusiasm from both the team and the young people.
A core element of the headspace model is having a Consortium of local community partners who work together in guiding and shaping the headspace service to ensure it truly reflects the needs and aspirations of young people in the community. We were excited to host our first Consortium meeting, bringing together a diverse range of sector stakeholders and partners, to explore new ideas, reflect on what the centre will be offering young people in the community and to ensure all young people will receive the support and help they need. The Consortium, with will be chaired by local GP, Dr Sarah Youngson, will be an important part of headspace Manjimup, ongoing, and we were excited to shape our shared purpose and vision for the centre.
We’ve also been connecting with community and government representatives, including the Governor of WA, His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson APM, Rick Wilson, Federal Member for O’Connor, and Bevan Eatts, Member for Warren-Blackwood to discuss headspace Manjimup. It’s been wonderful to share the centre’s vision, and talk about how we will deliver accessible, youth-friendly mental health support for young people in the Warren-Blackwood region. The team also enjoyed showcasing the new space to the riders of the Inland Peloton, who stopped by to talk with students at Manjimup Senior High School about mental health as part of the Hawaiian Ride for Youth.
With work underway on the future home of headspace Manjimup, we’re one step closer to opening the doors at 81-83 Giblett Street. This is such an exciting milestone, and we can’t wait to transform the space into a welcoming and youth-friendly centre.
Keep an eye out on our Facebook or Instagram for updates on how it is going, and if you’re in town, take a peek through the window!
