Selectability has officially opened a dedicated mental health facility, a space that aims to provide essential services for mental health and suicide prevention. The inspiration behind this much-needed facility stemmed directly from the community.
“Before Selectability moves into an area, we conduct a survey. In this case, 93% of respondents said they needed a dedicated facility to support mental health and suicide prevention,” said Bryn Hicks, Regional Coordinator.
The facility offers a variety of services, ranging from NDIS support to group programs and Clubhouse memberships. What sets this centre apart is its open-door policy—no referral is necessary, everyone is welcome.
While it’s not a crisis service, the team is always prepared to refer individuals to the appropriate groups. Their services extend beyond typical offerings, as the centre also provides transport for participants and serves as a multi-use space for organisations and community groups.
Training and development are a priority for the staff.
"We provide ongoing training, practice supervision, and mentorship to ensure our team is well-equipped to handle a wide range of mental health issues," Hicks explained.
This is part of Selectability’s commitment to supporting the community with experienced and empathetic staff.
To tackle mental health stigma, simply being present in the community is a huge step.
“Just having a facility like this shows people that mental health is something we can talk about. It’s out in the open, and that visibility helps to break down barriers,” he added.
Accessibility is also central to their mission. Selectability embraces diversity within its workforce and in its policies, ensuring inclusivity for First Nations people, the LGBTQIA+ community, and linguistically diverse groups.
There’s also a special focus on the elderly, who, as Hicks highlighted, suffer from some of the highest rates of suicidality due to loneliness.
Ultimately, the goal is to spark conversations around mental health in the community.
“Having these conversations makes people feel safe,” emphasised Hicks.
When people visit the facility, they can expect a warm welcome, a cup of tea or coffee, and someone to help them navigate their challenges.
For those interested in accessing services or joining community-led groups, the facility is ready to assist, providing a supportive space for all.
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