Government providing personal support for people with a severe mental illness

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough, today welcomed the announcement by the Prime Minister John Howard, of the successful service providers in 28 demonstration sites for the first funding round of the Personal Helpers and Mentors Programme (PHaMs), worth $32.3 million over three years.

The Howard Government announced $284.8 million PHaMs Programme in April 2006, an initiative where people with a mental illness are supported by their own personal helper and mentor.

“I am very pleased four organisations in Queensland will deliver PHaMs across five sites in this round, with demonstration sites in Brisbane, Townsville, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Logan,” Mr Brough said.

“The PHaMs Programme will make a great difference to people whose lives are severely affected by mental illness, as they are helped develop goals and strategies to better manage everyday life and reconnect with the community.

“The organisations selected have a proven performance record in providing support to people with mental illness and this funding will allow them to continue their high standard of service.

“PHaMs has been developed following extensive consultation Australia-wide with people with mental illness and their carers, peak groups and organisations that provide them with support.

“Providing a flexible approach, the Programme on recovery focuses on the recovery of participants, showing people with mental illness can lead a full life in the community.

“This program is a key part of the Howard Government’s contribution to the Council of Australian Governments’ National Action Plan on Mental Health 2006-11,” Minister Brough said.

Unsuccessful organisations in this funding round are encouraged to apply in future rounds.

A list of the service providers for the PHaMs Programme demonstration sites is attached. For more information go to FaCSIA’s website