The WES Mental Health Cafe.
The Wellbeing and Emotional Support Centre 'The WES' provided a welcoming and safe space for anybody 16 years and over who may be experiencing mental health concerns, emotional distress or feeling socially isolated.
The WES was a unique space to connect and talk to someone with lived experience of mental health challenges without the need for a referral or an appointment, operating at hours when most other services are closed.
In 2021, Larter Consulting worked with the Latrobe Valley community who showed great innovation and leadership in exploring the feasibility of a 'mental health café' model for its community.
Engaging with people with lived experience of mental illness, psychological distress, and families and carers, along with local service system partners, in a period of consultation and codesign this community-based service was designed by community for community.
Delivered by Lifeline Gippsland and Wellways, the WES offered a non-clinical model of wellbeing support in the Latrobe Valley which has supported over 700 community members with genuine connection, early intervention and community-based care.
"The WES is an incredible resource. I have been through the mental health system and often found myself disillusioned with the supports available. The WES is different in that it treats people with compassion, understanding and humanity, not just a problem to be solved."
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The Latrobe Health Assembly respectfully acknowledges Aboriginal people as the Original Custodians of the land we walk on today — the land of the Braiakaulung people of the Gunaikurnai nation and passes on respect to their Elders past and present, future and emerging.
The Latrobe Health Assembly celebrates, values and includes people of all backgrounds, genders, sexualities, cultures, bodies and abilities.
All gifts of $2 or more are tax deductible and go directly to our programs. The Latrobe Health Assembly is a registered charitable organisation recognised by the ACNC and the ATO. ABN 54 996 117 267.
