Fed: $46 million to help people with mental illnesses

AAP General News (Australia)
02-17-2007
Fed: $46 million to help people with mental illnesses

CANBERRA, Feb 17 AAP - The federal government has launched a $46 million initiative
to improve services for people with mental illnesses.

Assistant Minister for Health and Ageing Christopher Pyne said the initiative would
benefit many Australians suffering from mental health problems.

"This will help improve the quality of life for socially isolated people who have severe
and persistent mental illness by helping individuals to participate in their communities,"

Mr Pyne said.

"People with mental illness will be offered a skill-building program and will be helped
to improve living skills.

"They will be encouraged to develop social networks, build confidence and achieve their
personal goals."

The five-year funding program is part of the government's action plan on mental health.

The new Support for Day to Day Living in the Community Program will benefit from the
government initiative.

"One in five Australians will experience mental illness at some time in their life,"

Mr Pyne said.

"And we know that many people in the community are isolated by their illness.

"This program will help people affected by a persistent and enduring illness to have
a better life."

Mr Pyne invites organisations experienced with mental health to apply for funding.

"Our program is aimed at selected regions across Australia that have a high level of
need but also build upon the variety of support services available," Mr Pyne said.

AAP jat/jm/bwl

KEYWORD: MENTAL

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