August 13, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council and Hunter New England Health have joined forces to hold a Community Information Day on August 22 to link the community with the health and support services available to them.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said when things happen in people’s lives and they are faced with a stressful situation that causes a need for help, it could be challenging to know where to turn.

“Our community has been dealing with a lot in the last four years, with the extended period of drought, the onset and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and, during 2020, many other tragic events that have touched the lives of many in our community,” Cr Chaffey said.

“We understand it can be very confusing trying to understand where to find help and which service providers offer the type of assistance you need.

“Gunnedah Shire Council and Hunter New England Health have agreed to the benefits of holding a community event to inform our community and provide the opportunity for members to engage with representatives from the many providers of health and support services in our region.

“These will include mental health services, counselling services and support services to help with day-to-day challenges including finances and charity assistance.

The information day will be for people of all ages and all walks of life.

“This event will be held in our Town Hall where the doors will open at 9am and close at 2pm.”

The Community Information Day will be held on Saturday, August 22 and will include a COVID Management Plan, with social distancing, sanitiser and electronic check-in at the door and COVID marshalls.

“We have a strong network of support services in Gunnedah Shire, but people need to be aware of what they are, what they provide, where they are and whether they are suitable for their needs,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This day offers a free and friendly opportunity to speak to representatives from participating organisations.”

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.