July 9, 2018 Funding cuts to WA’s Meth Helpline are unacceptable Recent funding cuts to WA’s Meth Helpline are deeply concerning, according to Shadow Minister for Mental Health Sean L’Estrange. “The Meth Helpline was launched in September 2016 to provide help and support to methamphetamine users and their families and friends,” Mr L’Estrange said. “Professional counsellors provide information, can refer people for treatment and support, can support people waiting for treatment and provide a free call-back service. “The $154,000 funding cut means there will be 10 fewer shifts per week and potentially calls for help going unanswered.” Mr L’Estrange said there was no indication the number of meth users in WA was going down. “As recently as April this year, WA was given the unenviable title of ‘Ice State’ when wastewater tests revealed our State had the highest level of meth use in Australia,” the Shadow Minister said. “The report by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission also showed that meth use in WA was increasing, while the rest of the nation’s rates of use had either stabilised or declined. “The Government’s Methamphetamine Action Plan Taskforce report, which was released in June 2018, identified that people found it difficult to know where to go when seeking help and that the system was complex and difficult to navigate. “The Meth Helpline addresses these issues by providing an invaluable first point of contact for many people who do not know where else to find help. “It also provides regular phone counselling for people in remote areas who would not otherwise have access to services. “In March this year, the Meth Helpline was a finalist for the Treatment award in the 2018 Alcohol and Other Drugs Excellence Awards and has received overwhelmingly positive consumer feedback since its launch. “In its first six month of operation, the line answered over 3000 calls. “For a Government to cut funding to such an important service beggars belief.” “I call on the McGowan Government to re-establish the Meth Helpline’s funding to ensure it can continue to deliver its vital services to people in need” Ends |
