After taking time to consider the results of the survey it did into our region’s mental health, the Kiama and District Stronger Community group is beginning to roll out multiple initiatives to improve overall mental health in our region.

The first will be an information session at the Kiama Leagues Club for representatives of the many community groups in the area.

“This is to introduce our Lighthouse Program, which is being steered by HSC Global (a locally based business conducting mental health training for big businesses), Maggie Dent and Monty Badami,” says Cameron.

“The idea of the program is to have those community groups nominate a mental health officer as an additional member of their executive.

“They would then receive training through the Lighthouse Program so they could go back to their organisation and focus on measures to improve mental health.”

In addition, a youth event is being organised for the last night of Mental Health Week on 17 April and something bigger later in the year.

“Our survey found the kids really wanted more youth events, so our youth team are organising a concert and a Youth Fest on 10 July at the Pavilion. Essentially it is going to be an information session, with talks and entertainment,” says Cameron. 

Information on these initiatives will be in future editions.

Funding for these projects is continuing to flow in, with the latest contributions being $1300 from the opening of Emily Herbert’s Miss Arda bar and mezze venue on Terralong Street, and $10,000 donated by Dartanyon Development, owners of the old Kiama Cove Motel.

The information sessions are being held 25 March, Kiama Leagues, 7-8.20pm. Register to attend at www.thekdsc.com.au