State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, is calling on the Government to strengthen the State’s mental health system as a review into acute mental health practices is ongoing.
The review was triggered by the death of a patient in seclusion at Lismore Hospital in 2014 and is looking into the policy and practice of seclusion, restraints and observations.
Ms Hornery is calling on the Government to commit to implementing the findings of the review. Access to affordable mental health services has been a particular concern in the Wallsend electorate.
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery
“Today, I am calling on the Minister for Mental Health to ensure that the Government enacts the recommendations of the review into the policy and practice of seclusion, restraints and observations.”
“One death of a patient in seclusion is one too many.”
“The people in need of acute mental health care are some of the most vulnerable in society and it is important that we make sure New South Wales’ system follows best practice.”
“Every day, I hear from Wallsend residents about how important mental health support has been to them or to someone they love. Making sure there is affordable and accessible mental health care is important.”
“Mental health services are vital and are under increasing pressure in Wallsend as more and more people access them.”
“We need to ensure that anyone who needs mental health services can access them and that those who do are safe and properly cared for.”