Mackay’s new purpose-built Step Up Step Down residential mental health facility has opened its doors.
The $5.4 million facility in Shakespeare Street provides a local recovery service for people with severe and complex mental health conditions.
The ten-bed facility is a partnership between Mackay HHS and Mind Australia and was funded by the State Government.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Jo Whitehead said Step Up Step Down was a supportive link between community-based care and acute mental health services.
The service helps people ‘step down’ from hospital to community and allows people living in the community to ‘step up’ and avoid a hospital admission.
“Improving community mental health is a strong focus for Mackay HHS and this new facility bridges the gap between hospital and home,” Ms Whitehead said.
An interim six-bed service has operated since July 2017 already supported more than 170 people.
“We have already seen that a service such as this helps decrease the rate of hospital readmissions for people who have stepped down from the hospital inpatient unit and has also helped other people avoid being admitted to hospital.”
Residents are able to take part in group activities as well as individual one-on-one support based on their strengths and goals as identified in their individual recovery plan.
Each resident has their own bedroom and ensuite and a choice of dining or recreation areas.
There’s a large open common room with lounge, dining and activity areas, as well as a smaller sitting room with a TV and kitchenette.
“It feels very homelike, there’s a lot of natural light and the furnishings are very modern with beanbags, ottomans and other comforts.
“If you want to be in a larger group you can, and if you don’t there’s plenty of space to retreat for quiet time.”
Outside there are covered barbecue and courtyard areas, a gazebo with table and chairs and a barbecue and raised vegetable gardens for residents with a green thumb.
