In New South Wales, One Door Mental Health operates a number of Clubhouses for NDIS participants who are experiencing mental health challenges.
The Illawarra Clubhouse in Wollongong is one of the sanctuaries. It is a safe, supportive and respectful place where people experiencing mental health challenges can come to connect with community, participate in recreational activities and receive support for their mental health and wellbeing.
One Door staff also support Illawarra Clubhouse members to achieve their education and employment-related goals, such as returning to or commencing study and/or securing casual, part-time or full-time work.
Clubhouses provide people with a space for relationships and friendships to grow. They are places where all people, including staff, are equal, and people can work together on projects relevant to the house as well as their own individual recovery goals.
Program Manager, Jack Partridge, says Clubhouses provide a schedule of recreational and educational group activities, such as book club, cooking group and meditation and yoga sessions.
“Participants come in to engage socially with each other and the staff, using the groups as a chance to connect and build new friendships. We run discussion and support groups every day, which allows people to explore various topics around mental health, health and wellbeing, financial management and healthy relationships,” he said.
“Clubhouses provide a sense of community for people experiencing mental health challenges; they are places where Clubhouse members feel understood, respected and valued.”
One Door also operates a Clubhouse in Balgowlah (Pioneer Clubhouse) and centre-based support services are also available in Campbelltown (Harmony House) and Harris Park (Frangipani House). These centre-based services require NDIS funding from participants.
Visit the One Door website to learn more about Clubhouse services.