Thursday, 20 June 2024

Turning Point

Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (10:19): President, you and I recently toured the Eastern Health facilities at Box Hill Hospital, which included the stroke unit, which was recently awarded gold status by the World Stroke Organization, and the general medicine and oncology units. We also visited Turning Point, and I particularly want to highlight the work of Turning Point, which leads Australia in public clinical research training and addiction treatment. Turning Point addresses the multifaceted nature of addiction. Their approach includes support from allied health professionals, lived experience peer workers and psychologists, who are available onsite and also over the phone. Turning Point also provides support and information to loved ones and health professionals to recognise and address addiction. This holistic approach focuses on those directly impacted by addiction and their families and support networks, and this is crucial in helping people on their journey to overcome addiction. The process is often challenging and time consuming and lengthy; however, small achievements along that journey deserve to be celebrated, such as reducing the frequency of substance use or taking the first step in seeking help. As part of Eastern Health, Turning Point staff can connect patients to the broader public hospital system when other health issues are identified.

The Allan Labor government understands the importance of publicly funded addiction services, and it is essential to recognise the work of all Turning Point staff. When I met with them recently to share a small morning tea, they emphasised the barriers to seeking help, which include stigma. I want to conclude by saying that if you are struggling with addiction, services like Turning Point are available to help you on your journey of recovery from addiction.