Clark Centre to remain open

The Clark Centre mental health unit in Armidale is to remain open over the Christmas-New Year period, Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay announced today.
He said he raised the proposed closure from December 23-Jan 6 with Health Minister Carmel Tebbutt during Parliament as a matter of urgency.
“The Minister has responded positively to community concerns,” the MP said.
“The decision by Hunter New England Health to close the facility for those two weeks without proper consultation with the community was inappropriate.
“This is a good outcome as the people who regularly use the centre, their families and support workers were outraged and disturbed at the prospect of being without this service at a time which is often very stressful for people experiencing mental illness.”
Mr Torbay said the eight-bed voluntary inpatient centre would be maintained at fully operational levels and its utilisation monitored to assist with future planning.
“I understand the Health Service is considering changes over the Christmas period next year and it has made a commitment to consult extensively and meaningfully with clinicians, staff and the community.
“This would provide an opportunity for feedback and ensure the support of the community before any changes are determined.
“It is important that both staff and the community have confidence in our mental health services.”