Bounce Wellbeing supporting youth mental health and emotional wellbeing in the Pilbara.

The Bounce Wellbeing Program was officially launched in Karratha on the 22nd of September at a celebration that saw families, community and dignitaries came together for a sausage sizzle and a yarn.

Bounce Wellbeing is currently operated out of Karratha, but is soon to be expanded into Tom Price, and helps young people aged 8-13 and their families. Practical support is provided to those in need to respond to the early signs of emotional distress to help address the region’s high rates of mental ill-health and self-harm. 

Anglicare WA CEO Mark Glasson said Bounce Wellbeing will provide accessible and culturally appropriate support, tailored to the needs of children who are too young to access existing supports such as headspace. Bounce Wellbeing has been co-designed with community to address local challenges, focussing on early intervention, family orientated support and culturally safe practices.

“Investment in a dedicated service is critical to supporting the emotional wellbeing of young people in the Pilbara, and this first-of-a-kind program will help ensure young people in the region have the resources and the support they need to thrive.” - Anglicare WA CEO Mark Glasson

Mental health is the second-leading cause of poor health outcomes in the Pilbara. The West Pilbara has Western Australia’s third highest rate of hospitalisation for self-harm among people under 24 years of age.  Importantly, the 5 year funding agreement with Channel 7 Telethon Trust and Rio Tinto provides certainty to our clients, as well as Anglicare WA staff in the region who will be providing the support.