Tenders called for new mental health unit

25 March 2009

A new $8.91 million non-acute unit at James Fletcher Hospital is one step closer with the call for tenders for construction of the project.

Area General Manager for Hunter New England Health Jude Constable said it is an exciting milestone for the project, which will provide care for non-acute mental health patients.

Tenders to build the 20-bed unit close on 5 May and it is hoped construction work can start in the second half of this year.

“The non-acute facility will allow a better transition for patients who no longer require acute mental health care but are not yet ready to be discharged,” Ms Constable said.

“It will also provide intensive, short-term rehabilitation for mental health clients (for a range of mental health disorders) in a therapeutic and supported environment.”

Construction of the new facility will follow the move in mid-June of acute mental health inpatient and outpatients services from James Fletcher Hospital to the new Mental Health Centre on the redeveloped Mater campus.

It also reflects the State Government’s commitment to keeping the James Fletcher Hospital site in public ownership and its continued use for health purposes.

“This is an exciting time in mental health for the Hunter New England region,” Ms Constable said.

“The new non-acute unit is one step closer to being realised, and in mid-June
our acute services will move into their new, purpose-built home at Waratah.

“The move to the Mater campus will provide improved services for our acute inpatients. 

“They will have the benefit of a modern facility and direct access to general and specialist services offered at the Calvary Mater Newcastle, including its new emergency department and its complementary services such as toxicology and drug and alcohol services.”

Contact: Frances Holz

Phone: 4939 2216