The replacement for the Barrett Centre, closed by the former Newman Government, is now complete, with finishing touches being done in time to welcome young adolescents in the next couple of months.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Minister for Health Steven Miles and Member for Stafford Dr Anthony Lynham visited the new $27 million, 12 bed adolescent mental health treatment centre today.
The Premier said the new centre, to be called Jacaranda Place, was co-designed by former residents of the Barrett Centre and families of former patients to provide the best possible space for young people to get treatment and for their recovery.
They were also involved in the naming process along with clinicians, educators and Traditional Owners.
“What happened after the Barrett Centre closed was an absolute tragedy which should never have happened,” the Premier said.
“I remember meeting with the families involved and being deeply moved by their stories, that’s why I made a commitment that we would build a new centre.
“I thank them for their time, their selflessness and their bravery in discussing what must have been times of terrible trial and suffering for them and their loved ones. Their input has been valuable, and will no doubt prove life-saving for future patients.
“I’m so proud to stand here today at the new Jacaranda Place which will ensure young people in need of mental health services get the very best possible care.”
Health Minister Steven Miles said the facility would see upwards of 40 young people each year across both residential care and non-residential day programs.
“Sadly, many young people suffer from mental illness, but at Jacaranda Place they’ll get the care they need,” Mr Miles said.
“When you look around you can see it was designed by young people. It’s relaxed, comfortable, with spaces to socialise and also spaces to be alone and recover.
“I know that this place will change lives, and it will save lives.”
Education Minister Grace Grace said Education Queensland had partnered on the project to ensure young people could continue their schooling while receiving treatment.
“Recovering from mental illness can be hard enough, we needed to make sure we could build education supports around them so they can keep up their school-work and maintain those social links,” Ms Grace said.
Member for Stafford Anthony Lynham thanked the consumers, health staff and builders who ensured the project was so successful.
“This truly is a wonderful facility, and while it is in my community it will service the entire state,” Dr Lynham said.
“I can’t wait to meet the staff who will work here and welcome them to the wider Prince Charles Hospital campus.”
The construction of Jacaranda Place created up to 140 jobs and when fully operational it will create approximately 45 medical, nursing and allied health jobs and 10 teaching jobs.
