Bendigo Community Health Services (BCHS) is facing significant operational challenges due to increasing demand for its mental health, physical health, and addiction services. The organization is requesting a funding boost of approximately $25 million to improve its facilities and enhance service delivery. Currently, staff work in cramped conditions at the BCHS central office located on Hargreaves Street, where privacy and comfort are compromised.
Mandy Hutchinson, the chief executive of BCHS, highlighted the urgent need for additional funding to address the lack of adequate space for both clients and staff. “We often find ourselves squeezed into tiny rooms or out in the hallways,” Hutchinson explained. To effectively serve the community and retain skilled personnel, BCHS needs to secure a new site and renovate it to ensure safety and accessibility.
The current premises, although centrally located, are insufficient for the breadth of services BCHS provides. Hutchinson noted that the infrastructure challenges have been particularly pronounced over the past 18 months. “It’s essential that people have access to infrastructure and support that honors who they are and gives them that space to heal,” she said.
The demand for BCHS services is apparent, with the organization operating beyond capacity. For instance, the Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub, managed by Kathlyn Crisp, accommodates 12 practitioners across eight consultation rooms. On certain days, the unit handles up to 64 patients, leading to significant strain on resources. Crisp stated that to meet the increasing demand, at least 10 additional rooms are needed, along with extra space for training future healthcare professionals.
BCHS also plays a critical role in the community by providing vital services such as pregnancy terminations, making it the largest provider of such services outside of Melbourne. Hutchinson emphasized that an expanded facility would alleviate pressure on the Bendigo Health emergency department while enhancing the overall service experience for clients.
The proposed funding could come from state government sources or philanthropic contributions. Hutchinson is actively advocating for this financial support, stressing that an investment in BCHS would ultimately lead to better outcomes for the community. “We see what is happening in the community and strive to respond effectively,” she said.
The need for a more spacious and functional environment at BCHS is not just about improving operational efficiency. It is also about ensuring that both clients and staff can thrive in a supportive atmosphere. “We want to create a happier space, but we just don’t have the space for it,” Crisp reiterated.
As BCHS navigates these challenges, the emphasis remains on meeting the needs of the community it serves, ensuring that individuals have access to the healthcare they deserve.
