NINE new mental health residential units have opened at Frankston Hospital. The $1 million refurbishment included upgrades to plumbing, electrical, roofing, and interior spaces. The nurse office, recreational room, and doctor’s office have also been upgraded.
Mental health treatment at Frankston Hospital has been in the spotlight this year. Earlier this year two families began the process of taking Peninsula Health to court, alleging that their loved ones did not receive appropriate psychiatric treatment at Frankston Hospital prior to their deaths by suicide (“Hospital sued over suicides” The Times 2/9/2024).
The redevelopment of the residential units was paid for by the state government. Victorian mental health minister Ingrid Stitt said “by modernising our public mental health and alcohol and other drug infrastructure, we’re making sure Victorians experiencing mental health and substance use challenges can receive care in modern, safe and comfortable environments.” “Refurbished and upgraded community mental health units at Peninsula Health will ensure that locals can access the best possible residential facilities to support them on their recovery journey,” Stitt said.
Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke said “Frankston locals with mental health challenges deserve the best possible care, and this investment for Peninsula Health will deliver just that.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 8 October 2024