Manurah fundraiser to support youth mental health

To continue supporting Mandurah’s young adults with mental health issues, GP Down South is urging residents to take part in its Youth Appeal evening complete with gourmet food and live music at the Oceanic Bar and Grill on Monday. .

GP Down South manager Eleanor Britton said its three-tier Youth Mental Health Program had engaged more than 1000 Peel students in the past year and was an important preventative service model.

“The program aligns with the State’s mental health strategy,” she said.

“We are hopeful we will raise the necessary funds, because we don’t want to let the youth of the region down and leave them without the support the program offers.

“We’ve run the awareness tier this year and it would be risky to not back it up with the prevention and intervention levels.

“They’ve bared their souls and its imperative all tiers are there to support them.”

Mrs Britton said the issues presenting in students from 15 to 17-years-old included drug and alcohol abuse within the family, particularly ice, domestic violence and sexual issues.

“Mandurah is struggling to deal with these issues but early intervention will, in the long run, strengthen the community and make it more vibrant and healthy, and save money,” she said.

“We want to engage them now instead of at the end of the line.”

Tickets to the event cost $50 and include canapes, live entertainment, guest speakers and auctions.

To buy a ticket or support the program, which at present is solely funded by GP Down South and donations, contact 9537 5500 or visit www.gpdownsouth.com.au.