Womens Health Business Case Report

Women’s Health NSW Business Case – Appendix B

10. HUNTER WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTRE

Local Population & Health Indicators The Newcastle LGA is socioeconomically diverse with areas of more significant disadvantage in western suburbs including Waratah, Mayfield and Shortland. Overall, 4.1% of women in the LGA also have three or more chronic and long-term health conditions. Reported rates of domestic and family violence and incidents of sexual assault are also above average, leading to higher than average rates of hospitalisations of women. Although women in the Hunter New England LHD report rates of psychological distress consistent with the NSW state average of 19.4%, rates of both mental health emergency presentations and intentional self-harm hospitalisations of women are in excess of the NSW average. These figures suggest rates of hidden and under-reported mental illness and psychological distress amongst women. Responding to Emerging and Unmet Needs Hunter Women’s Centre currently provides health services and support to over 1,700 women each year through the Women’s Health Program. Sustainable investment in the program is reflected in Scenario 1, with a recalibration of costs to deliver currently contracted services and, Scenario 2 reflecting the level of services and activities currently being delivered to meet community needs. Established in the area in 1976, the Centre has built extensive community connections and has a team of staff who are known and trusted by women and organisations in the area. The level of investment proposed in both Scenarios 2 and 3 would enable the Centre to continue its current level of service delivery more sustainably and ensure strong health outcomes for women. Hunter Region Women’s Working Group Ltd t/a Hunter Women’s Centre The Hunter Women’s Regional Working Group Ltd T/A The HUNTER WOMEN’S CENTRE is a company limited by guarantee, and registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) as a Charity with Public Benevolent Institution status. Established in 1976, we engage, support and empower Hunter women and their families to improve their lives through gender specific health and family-safe programs. We focus on reducing violence against women and their children, and facilitating women’s health, safety and wellbeing. ABN 51 001 278 520 WEBSITE https://hwc.org.au/hrwwg FINANCIAL REPORTS https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/27048ec7-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/ Local Health District Hunter New England LHD Primary LGA(s) Serviced Newcastle LGA NSW Electorate(s) Newcastle; Wallsend Federal Electorate(s) Newcastle Site(s) Mayfield NAME

Women’s Health NSW Business Case – Supplementary Publication: Appendix B

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