Concerns People With Mental Illness Could Fall Through Gap of NDIS
The not-for-profit sector is calling for urgent action amid concerns people living with a mental illness could “fall through the gaps” as the National Disability Insurance Scheme absorbs some mental health services.
Mission Australia has joined with others across the sector to urge the Commonwealth to “acknowledge this emerging issue” and ensure there is adequate support for those who currently receive government support but will not be eligible for the NDIS.
According to some reports, more than 100,000 people living with a mental illness could be left without support as money from a number of federal programs is rolled into the $22 billion scheme.
Mission Australia CEO Catherine Yeomans confirmed some community-based, recovery-oriented programs had been scheduled to cease which could have significant consequences.
“As part of the phased introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, funding for several important mental health programs including PHaMs [Personal Helpers and Mentors Program] has been earmarked to transition to the NDIA,” Yeomans told Pro Bono News .
Source: Pro Bono Australia