A STOUSH has erupted between the union and state government service providers to the extent of cuts to community mental health services in Ballarat.
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Health and Community Services Union claims funding and service cuts will scale down support to those needing mental health support from 462 to 170 clients.
HACSU took a hit at Ballarat Health Services for outsourcing services, however, BHS says any changes are separate from BHS programs and services.
A BHS spokesperson said primary health network changes affecting mental health nurses were not specific to BHS. Rather, the changes apply to mental health nurses working in general practitioner clinics across the state.
The Courier understands neither Western Victoria Primary Health Network nor the state government find the figures from HACSU stack up. But neither has been able to confirm the extent of any changes, if any, will take place by time of publication.
HACSU senior industrial officer Kate Marshall said changes primarily would affect patients with mental health conditions who were transitioning back into the community. She said this included home visits and check-ups.
Ms Marshall said community issues were already exacerbated by the closure of Ballarat Health Services’ mental health community care unit Eastern View last year, and the closure of community mental health service provider Mind Australia.
The union was also concerned over unclear timelines for proposed changes.
There's no certainty to clients and no certainty to workers...without support in the community, there is a chance people will become more unwell
- Kate Marshall, HACSU senior industrial officer
HACSU claims it has appealed to Victiorian Mental Health Minister Martin Foley to step in.
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