Taking action to support people with mental illness and other complex needs

This position paper is one of four produced by Jesuit Social Services as part of our 2014 Victorian State Government Election Platform.

In it, we call for the next Victorian Government to ensure that people with mental illness have the support they need so that they can fully participate in our community.

Our recommendations consider the particular challenges for people whose mental illness is one of a range of overlapping and complex issues, including alcohol and drug issues, disability, health problems, homelessness and involvement in the child protection and criminal justice systems.

The paper proposes four actions to strengthen universal services:

1. Invest $6 million in entry points to the mental health service system so that people with complex needs are supported to access services.
2. Implement models of support to provide ongoing engagement and a sense of community for people with complex needs
3. Invest in intensive housing and support packages for people with complex needs and challenging behaviours.
4. Create an integrated plan for mental health services across the criminal justice system.

Get your copy

• Download our Election Platform: Taking action to support people with mental illness and other complex needs