Mental Health Co-Response goes two for two at Health Excellence Awards

A collaboration between WA Country Health Service, WA Police and the Mental Health Commission has seen an 80 per cent reduction in the number of mental health patients taken to South West Emergency Departments. 

The program aims to divert people experiencing mental health distress from the criminal justice system by connecting them with support services.

The Mental Health Co-Response in the South West sees nurses and Aboriginal Liaison Officers attend police call-outs where mental health is determined a contributing factor.

Expanded to the region in 2022, the program has been nominated in the category of Excellence in Mental Health and Excellence in Rural and Remote Care.

South West Clinical Nurse Specialist Jacqueline Spinks and Authorised Mental Health Practitioner (AMHP) Leanne Blomfield said the Co-Response has led to improved outcomes for people in crisis.

“As mental health clinicians we are always striving to provide the best possible care to the community,” Ms Blomfield said.

“We’ve seen significant improvement in outcomes for individuals affected by mental health,” Ms Spinks added.

Clinical Coordinator Community Mental Health Prabeesh Pillai said the team was excited to be nominated and passed on his gratitude for the excellent services they provide to the community.

“Congratulations to Mental Health Co-Response South West and the project teams who have been part of this journey,” Mr Pillai said.