Hospital to Recovery

Our Hospital To Recovery Program works in collaboration with the Mid North Coast Local Health District. 

Our Mental Health Peer worker (Tony) is colocated between Lifeline Mid Coast and Port Macquarie Base Hospital Community Health. Patients who have attempted suicide are referred to the Mental Health Peer Worker from the Mental Health Unit and from the Emergency Department. 

The Mental Health Peer worker meets patients while they are in hospital and spends time with them, supporting, listening and advocating for their needs. Once the patient is discharged from hospital, the Mental Health Peer worker will provide support depending on requirements, often visiting the patient at home, delivering meals, and taking them to doctor & specialist appointments. An important part of the role is to assist the patient secure connections to the community and services, which can involve liaising with Centrelink, Ostara (job agency), Neimi (NGO), Link to Home (Homeless service) and Services Australia. 

Ongoing support is then offered through Endeavour Mental Health Clubhouse and Lifeline's 8 week support after suicide group "Eclipse", overseen by Lifeline's Suicide Prevention Manager.