Thanks to an outstanding community fundraising effort led by the Upper Lachlan Youth Council, a mental health worker is now available at the Wellness Centre Crookwell, one day per week, to assist five to 17 years olds who live at an address within the Upper Lachlan.

Six 45 minute sessions, delivered by Ashkar and Co, are available each Friday for young people living in the shire who require low intensity psychological interventions for conditions such as anxiety, or if they’ve been subjected to bullying. Therapeutic services will consist of low intensity psychological therapy tailored to each individual and it’s free for eligible clients.

On behalf of the council and the community I would like to thank the Youth Council for leading the fundraising effort and make special mention of Youth Council member and former councillor Jo Marshall who has driven the project.

I would also like to thank everyone who supported the fundraising efforts.

Mental health support is vital for our young people. According to beyondblue, one in seven young people experience a mental health condition and young people outside capital cities are significantly more at risk of dying by suicide than their peers in capital cities.

However, identifying issues early and providing young people with the right support and treatment can change, and ultimately save, lives.

For further information about the new service, please visit: https://ashkarandco.com.au/crookwell-outreach-program.