Vital support flowing for grass roots health care providers

Eating Disorders Queensland will be among the first to benefit from the $28 million fund established to support Queensland’s community-based health service groups during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a $130,000 grant.

Assistant Minister for Health Nikki Boyd said it was critical to provide support to the most vulnerable in our community.

“In the first round of this initiative, we have supported Eating Disorders Queensland by directly allocating funding to ensure individuals needing mental health support can access services during this difficult time,” Ms Boyd said.

“It is critical that we back our community support services during these difficult times as they respond rapidly to the widespread impact of the virus in Queensland.”

CEO of Eating Disorders Queensland, Belinda Chelius with the complexity of both mental and physical issues, eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.

“With the advent of COVID-19 we have heard from our clients about their additional complex needs requirements,” Ms Chelius said.

“Those living with an eating disorder(s), their families and key supports, welcome the additional funding to add much needed supports/treatment for this particularly vulnerable group, during and post the pandemic”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said this extra funding was so important to ensure Queenslanders are supported through the COVID-19 pandemic and into the future.

“Since announcing the funding, 18 mental health community support services from across the state have successfully received funding totalling $2.6 million,” Minister Miles said.

“Other successful recipients covering consumer support, primary and integrated care, palliative care and alcohol and other drugs also received more than $2.2 million in grants.

“It is heartening to see funding flow to our community healthcare providers, who are responding so well to ensure Queenslanders get vital care.

“I want to thank Eating Disorders Queensland for their services to Queenslanders in need during this time.”

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