We are delighted to announce that the Hawkesbury will soon be home to a new community-based alcohol and other drugs support service. The WHOS Hawkesbury Hub will open in mid-2023 and will provide a range of day treatment services for those living with alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues.

The service is being funded by us, through the Federal Government’s Community Health and Hospitals Program. The Centre will support people with AOD issues within their own community where their friends, family and primary healthcare providers can all be part of their integrated recovery and care journey.

We know that substance dependence doesn’t discriminate, it can affect anyone. In the Hawkesbury, there is a lack of permanent and accessible services offering community-based support and we are pleased that this service will soon be available to address this need.

When it comes to supporting people with AOD issues, residential rehabilitation services are important but aren’t always suitable in every situation. Some people have responsibilities that prevent them from being able to commit to a residential program and this can act as a barrier to seeking help. That is why community-based support is so important. People need to be able to seek support and get well within their own community.

Services provided at the Hawkesbury Centre will include comprehensive AOD assessment and referral, structured group work, counselling, case management, GP liaison, aftercare, relapse prevention, and access to psychosocial services including housing and welfare. The service will run an outreach program to improve access for isolated areas and work closely with a local Aboriginal community organisation to ensure services are culturally appropriate and accessible.

Stakeholders in our region have been advocating for community-based models of care, where multiple services are available to provide wrap around support for people with multiple, and often complex, issues. We look forward to working with the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and other community organisations to provide an integrated service that will provide additional access to support and help reduce unnecessary hospital presentations.

If you’re in need of support, visit our website to find out what other services are available in your area www.nbmphn.com.au/aodsupport