RichmondPRA has announced eight funding packages of between $6000 and $40,000 for projects aimed at improving regional mental health service solutions across the New England. 

As another phase of the local Partners in Recovery (PIR) mental health support initiative, the packages were awarded following a careful selection process where applicants had to demonstrate how they could use innovative practices to assist local people with a lived experience of mental illness. 

While the major packages are contracted to support services HealthWISE and EACH, six other local organisations will also receive funding.

Centacare will be able to establish the “Crafty” Healing Circle program that will support social and emotional wellbeing among Aboriginal women from the Boggabilla, Toomelah and Tingha communities, while the Glen Innes District Community Centre project is aiming to connect participants into the broader community through a variety of initiatives.

Goondiwindi Care Inc. (Boggabilla), Rural Fit in Tamworth and the Armidale Volunteer Referral Service have also secured funding, along with The Benevolent Society’s Tamworth office which is using horticulture as part of its therapy activities.

RichmondPRA chief executive officer Pam Rutledge said these were “real dollars making a real difference”.

“Each of these programs is unique and tailor-made for assisting local people with their mental health recovery journeys,” she said. 

“They fit perfectly with the philosophy of Partners In Recovery, which is all about better local support and cohesion so that people with mental health issues can get the right help at the right time.”