Support in place for at-risk

Drug and alcohol clinician Robert Binsiar is now working for Mission Australia to provide culturally safe alcohol and drug outreach services for people in Meekatharra, Cue and Mount Magnet.

A spokeswoman said the service supported individuals with issues associated with alcohol and other drug use, and their families, through case management and support to access the right treatment.

“Counselling, group work, and community education and awareness support is also available,” she said.

“The Alcohol and Other Drug Outreach service will work closely with other Mission Australia services relating to family violence, school attendance, family support, public tenancy, emergency relief, and the Meekatharra Mental Health Support Service.”

Mission Australia Area regional manager Dr Paul Royce said the organisation had an active presence in the area and strong referral pathways.

“Because of that we have been able to hit the ground running,” he said.

“These services are culturally safe and will help to reduce harm and support behaviour change before the use of alcohol and other drugs becomes entrenched or problematic.”

The WA Primary Health Alliance funds both the Alcohol and Other Drug Outreach and Meekatharra Mental Health Support services.

Mission Australia’s Alcohol and other Drug Outreach Ser-vice — Meekatharra is open Monday-Friday from 8.30am-4.30pm.

More information is available by phoning 9956 5100.