THE Kindred Clubhouse program is set to receive a $500,000 boost from the federal government.
The program aims to help provide a welcoming place for those with mental illness, and has run weekly sessions to help visitors since 2016.
The funding for the program, based out of Frankston, will be used to employ support staff who will run regular activities for Clubhouse members, and provide advice and support.
The Kindred Clubhouse program is predominantly designed for people who may be reluctant to access the more traditional, clinical, appointment-based services.
Dunkley MP Chris Crewther said that “programs such as this are important to local communities, because, without them, many people who face the daily challenges of mental illness don’t have access to the support they need and the results can be devastating for the individual, their families and the broader community. This is the first project of its kind to be federally funded in Australia.”
“The program has been developed following extensive consultation with the community and stakeholders, the strong message coming through was that there was a definite need in the area for a program such as the Kindred Clubhouse model.
“This is a community-based program, designed to provide practical support and advice to help people with mental illness in their day to day lives.”
Health Minister and Flinders MP Greg Hunt said that “the Clubhouse provides important opportunities for people to socially interact, participate in meaningful activities and receive advice on employment, education, financial management, housing, maintaining physical wellbeing, and managing drug and alcohol addictions, including tobacco.
“Most importantly, it is a place to belong, where people can feel comfortable and are always welcome.”
The clubhouse says it offers support to people in the following areas:
- social skills and friendships;
- family connections;
- managing daily living needs;
- financial management and budgeting;
- finding and maintaining a home;
- vocational skills and goals, including volunteering;
- educational and training goals;
- maintaining physical wellbeing, including exercise;
- managing drug and alcohol addictions, including tobacco;
- building broader life skills including confidence and resilience.
