Busselton based organisation Lamp Inc still has an uncertain future, according to chief executive Lorrae Loud despite some funding being announced in the budgets.
Ms Loud said the announcement of $21 million for the joint partnership in specialist homelessness programs was one of the few positives to come out of the budget.
As a result, Lamp Inc’s specialist mental health program for the homeless will receive funding for another two years.
She said the federal government have also provided funding for general operation costs which will see them stay open until June 30, 2016.
However, Ms Loud said the future after this was uncertain with no guarantee of money beyond this period.
She said trying to keep an organisation afloat for one year at a time was stressful for everyone involved.
The state government’s 2015-16 budget also revealed $26 million over four years to help fund suicide prevention programs.
Ms Loud said it was unclear of how this funding would be rolled out.
The funding is part of the government’s strategy Suicide Prevention 2020: Together we can save lives.
WA treasurer Mike Nahan said on average WA loses one person a day to suicide.
“This is something we can change if we work together, which is why the government has just about doubled its initial funding to this important area,” he said.
The focus of the money will be for coordinated and targeted responses to high risk groups which includes $9.5 million to continue suicide and self-harm program in 60 high schools.
A sub-acute centre in Bunbury has also been promised which aims to service people in the South West and is expected to open in 2017.
The facility would aim to support people with mental illness, either at risk of hospitalisation or to support their transition back into the community after acute care.
Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said it was still important to invest in mental health despite tough economic times.
Ms Loud wasn’t sure how much support it would provide for Busselton residents in need because it might be hard for critical patients to travel.
Lamp Inc is a not-for-profit organisation based in Busselton which provides mental health support and education programs in the South West.
If you are in need of support contact Lamp Inc on 9754 1834.
