Mental Health Drug and Alcohol
News
August 2025
Brookvale Safe Haven—Page 14
2025 NSLHD Quality and Improvement Awards—Page 10
Compliments Galore! —Pages 3 – 5
NAIDOC Week — Page 6 - 9
www.nslhd.health.nsw.gov.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/NSLHD.MHDA
MHDA Director ’ s Report
Welcome to the August edition of the Mental Health Drug and Alcohol (MHDA) Newsletter. As we enter the latter half of the year, I ’ m reminded of the dedication,
2026. Staff have been redeployed across the hospital to support clinical capacity, and Riverglen will continue as a closed acute older person ’ s unit. Communication will be maintained through town halls, forums, and regular updates. This year ’ s MHDA Rewards & Recognition program received 224 nominations—a testament to the dedication of our staff. Thank you to everyone who took the time to acknowledge a colleague. We look forward to celebrating the nominees soon. Brookvale Safe Haven has launched a new video on Instagram showcasing its therapeutic space for young people. I encourage you to view and share this inspiring glimpse into our community care. The Governance and Operations Team held their 2025 DGO Planning Day on 10 July, led by Alicia Duffy and Janet Edmond. It was a day of connection and forward thinking. Thank you to all who contributed. Outcomes will be reflected in future strategic plans and direction for DGO MHDA. Congratulations to Winnie Leung, Executive Assistant to the MHDA Director of Nursing, who received the NSLHD Administrative Professionals Annual Award for the Macquarie Hospital site. Winnie ’ s exceptional organisational skills and unwavering support make her an indispensable part of our team. The MHDA Research Conference will be held on 27 August 2025 at the Kolling Auditorium, Royal North Shore. This event showcases research and quality improvement across MHDA—I encourage everyone to attend. The Northern Sydney Carer Network celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. An afternoon tea will be held on 24 September to honour the carers who provide invaluable support to our consumers and families. Wear It Purple Day is coming up on Friday 29 August. This national awareness day celebrates LGBTIQ+ young people and promotes safe, inclusive environments. This year ’ s theme, “ Bold Voices, Bright Futures ” , encourages young people to embrace their identity and speak their truth with pride. The DAHCP team will be leading some events. Thank you all for your continued passion, resilience, and care. Each event reflects the heart of MHDA—our people. I look forward to what we ’ ll achieve together in the months ahead. Kind regards,
compassion, and innovation that define our MHDA community. I ’ m pleased to share a few updates and celebrations that reflect the strength and spirit of our teams. MHDA acknowledges Michelle Meadham, her team and MQH Executive for proudly hosting the NAIDOC celebration at Macquarie Hospital on Thursday 10 July. The event commenced with a smoking ceremony and Didgeridoo performance by First Nations Education. We are proud to honour Kas Mattes as MHDA ’ s Cultural Champion—an advocate whose work continues to foster cultural inclusion. A standout moment was the presentation of the inaugural NSLHD Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Excellence Award to Teahne Lyons, recognised for her unwavering commitment to First Nations communities. Congratulations to both Teahne and Kas. A heartfelt thank you to Dr Shalini Narchal for her outstanding leadership as Acting Clinical Director throughout July, while continuing her role at Hornsby Hospital. Her calm, thoughtful approach provided stability and support during a time of transition. We also warmly welcome back Dr Pradeep Jarabandahalli and thank him for his continued dedication. Thank you to all who participated in the Patient Safety Culture Survey. MHDA received strong results, with most staff rating patient safety as “ very good ” or “ excellent. ” These outcomes reflect the care and commitment you bring to your work every day. Congratulations to our teams recognised at the 2025 NSLHD Quality Improvement Awards. The Brolga Unit received the Excellence in Mental Health Services Award for their work on behavioural expectations in adolescent care. Thanks to Matteo Zuccala, Sophie O ’ Keefe and Brolga team. The NSLHD Eating Disorder Service was named runner - up for their innovative brief intervention supporting transitions from paediatric inpatient to outpatient care. Thanks to Simone Jaques and Dr Penelope Uther for leading this important work. HammondCare has announced the redevelopment of Greenwich Hospital, with construction beginning in April 2026. Riverglen Ward will temporarily relocate to the Manning Unit at Macquarie Hospital by March
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Compliments
To Dan Winter and Gabriel Veron from the research team from patient participants in the REMDAS Study : “ Appreciate how well you and Gabriel looked after me too - it was fun! ’
“ Well done to you both for providing an environment in which people are happy to participate in research to improve healthcare provision and outcomes, excellent job. ”
“ Thank you for the vouchers and the opportunity to participate in the study, it was quite fun, and great getting to meet you and the others. ” Cristina Cullen (NB counselling team) from counselling client: "I can't tell these things to other people but I can to you, and it's refreshing...and I know you listen. Because of that I can open up properly". John Kenniwell (MERIT team) from MERIT program: “ G ’ day John. Just wanted to say a big thanks for everything you did for me in MERIT. I got a really good result at court. Hope you ’ re enjoying your holidays ’. Dr Jarrod Bradley (OTP and CL registrar) from Dan Winter: “ A shoutout to Dr Jarrod Bradley, who kindly assisted with some of the participant ’ s later sessions while Gabriel has been on leave. ” To the CL Team (NSRMHS) from UTS on behalf of Students: “ Thank you to the CL team (Bev, Simon and Jarrod) for the time spent with the nursing students of the last few weeks. The engagement and involvement was invaluable, they have learnt so much. ” To Rebecca Doorey (BCHC MH) from Bridge Housing Support Coordinator: “ Bridge Housing & I have worked with Rebecca for several years and in relation to several of our tenants. Rebecca has been excellent in the level of care she provides but is also extremely professional & compassionate.
She is a fantastic communicator and will respond in a timely manner.
It is clear her focus is her clients & building excellent relationships with other community services & supports.
It is always a comfort to know a tenant will be supported by Rebecca.
I would also like to give a mention to Anthony Neville, Nurse Unit Manager (ACT) who also works alongside Bridge Housing in the best interests of our mutual clients & the community. He too is a wonderful communicator & extremely helpful. To Stephen Sanderson (Ryde ACT) from Peng Zhang: “ On multiple occasions ….. Stephen has stepped up without hesitation to support and protect the team during high - risk situations. His courage and reliability make a nig difference. Thanks. ”. From former D&A clients – to Elysa Renton in the NB D&A counselling team this week: “ Hi Elysa, Not sure if you remember me but I saw you for a while at Mona Vale. I just wanted to let you know that I made 10 years sober last Monday and I ’ ve been reflecting this last week on my journey and how kind your, gentle, empathetic support helped me so much to find my way. I am living a healthy, full life and alcohol is just not a part of it anymore. I still love trees and hug them at every opportunity! I hope that you are well and that this email finds you. ” “ Hi Elysa, I still think of you and hope that you and your family are doing well. I still appreciate all the time and advice you gave me. 10 years single and still pretty happy that way. Glad to hear you ’ re back here – hope you ’ re happy too. ”
“ Well done Elysa, 2 compliments from previous clients that still hold you in high regard and attribute part of their recovery to you is a huge achievement. ” - Hannah Cook
These are beautiful comments Elysa and so poignant as they demonstrate the impact of your compassion and authenticity a decade later. ” - Dr Kylie Sutherland NSR D&A
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Compliments
To Samantha Ibrahim from the MERIT team via Hannah Cook (D&A): “ A client went out of their way to pass on their compliments to say how amazing she was. Sam, you obviously did a great job so well done. This lovely compliment will be table at the next D&A executive meeting. ” From Christina Cullen: “ How good. Excellent work Sam! What a privilege it is to work with someone as dedicated, kind and caring as yourself. We're lucky to have you! ” To OPMHS from a consumer ’ s family:
“ To all the team involved with D ’ s transition and care to the nursing village.
Hello All,
A very big thank you for all your efforts and kindness, support, care and continued assistance during the period of D ’ s transition to San Antonio.
Your efforts and patience was hugely a part of the success in D ’ s settling at the new home.
Jacqueline (Salmons, OPMHS CNC), you have been a very kind and approachable listening ear to myself and my husband during this period and we have felt so comfortable dealing with you on the many issues.
D too has immensely benefited from your many visits, transportation, chats and counselling. You are a definite asset to the service.
Many thanks once again to all of you and we are very grateful for all you have done for D.
Thank you. Kind Regards.
To Sharon Brunning (NB D&A) from a client ’ s husband Partner was aware of the “ hard work and support given by Sharon ” and he wanted to ensure that “ Sharon receives my thanks for the work she put into my wife ”. To the NSRMHS PECC Team from The Way Back (TWB) NSW (Aftercare) regarding a shared client: “ TWB NSW team engagement and follow up for a mutual client allowed timely RNSH PECC team intervention, significantly changing the consumer's outcome and subsequent journey. ” “ A psychiatrist (from Proveda) stated ... that their shared client was the reason why the client was alive today due a phone call to PECC alerting the staff of the client's change of behaviour on the call leading the staff to examine the client to find she had ingested tablets leading to having her stomach pumped prior to liver collapse. The Psychiatrist went on to praise TWBNSW as the program encouraged him to make referrals due to a good collaboration between RNSH recently and he found it incredibly helpful in keeping clients safe knowing they will be escalated appropriately and quickly if needed. ”
“ The PECC psychiatrist's engagement and feedback shows a growing shift in perception and sense of team work between TWB NSW and NSLHD clinicians. ”
“ I would like to recognise Sheila as a much appreciated and consistent supporter of the RNSH onsite visits. ”
“ Onsite visits are only one aspect of the work TWB NSW is doing, however; these weekly visits are often essential to supporting a successful transition from inpatient to community/primary health. ”
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Compliments
To Staff at Douglas Building Detox Centre from clients: “ To the wonderful staff at the Douglas Building Detox Centre. Thank you for all your kindness, compassion, and care for myself and all your patients whilst in your care. I never felt judged or a burden and truly appreciate everything you have done for me, many thanks. ” “ Dear nurses. Thank you all so much for the kindness, care, love, and dedication you showed me during my detox stay. Your compassion and professionalism make a tough time much easier. I am incredibly GRATEFUL for every moment you spent helping me heal. I appreciate everything you do – heartfelt thanks. The world is too small, one day we may see each other, but I pray God not here, may be in a café, mall, or even cheering me for my next race in September. ”
The compliment portal is a great way to provide recognition to colleagues, team or vol- unteer. The compliment portal can be found on the NSLHD Intranet
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NAIDOC Week
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Services, MHDA
In line with NAIDOC week, celebrations were held throughout NSLHD.
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the NSLHD Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Excellence Award. This year ’ s Inaugural winner was MHDA ’ s own Teahne Lyons. Teahne was recognised for her dedication and unwavering commitment to supporting the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
L - R: Michelle Meadham, Clinical Lead Manager, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Services; Chris Curry, Wal Stewart, Teahne Lyons, Angel Ralph, Elizabeth Penman, Director of Allied Health and Clinical Programs
On Thursday 10 th July, staff, consumers and community members gathered at Macquarie Hospital for a Welcome to Country and cultural performances including a smoking ceremony and Didgeridoo performance provided by First Nations Education.
Andrea Taylor, Director MHDA at Macquarie Hospital NAIDOC celebrations
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NAIDOC Week
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Services,
.
Following the smoking ceremony, Andrea Taylor delivered an acknowledgement of country. Michelle Meadham presented the award for the MHDA Cultural Champion. The MHDA Cultural Champion award is an annual award given to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island staff member or ally staff member who champions cultural inclusion, awareness and safety This year it was awarded to Kas Mattes for his contributions to the MHDA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service and community. Guests delighted by lucky door prizes, which were made by the MHDA Aboriginal Team. Michelle introduced the Aboriginal MHDA trainees and program. Walter and Angel were introduced as the next generation of the program and the first ever Drug and Alcohol trainees in NSLHD. During a brief interlude, the First Nations Education duo kindly presented Aboriginal artifacts and weapons to the group, informing us on woomeras and spears, and traditional hunting techniques. The event was finished off with an inspiring and captivating performance by the Kiris An Tharan dance troupe, who delighted us with dances about the history of the Torres Strait Islands. Following the dance, guests gathered for light refreshments and celebrations. The Aboriginal MHDA team shared handmade beaded keyrings and lemon myrtle balm, which was made from the lemon myrtle tree in Macquarie Hospital ’ s healing garden.
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MHDA Cultural Champion Award 2025
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NSLHD Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Excellence Award
Timothy Yeap
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NSLHD Quality & Improvement Awards
Mayuri Parmar
Congratulations to the Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services Award WINNER: Brolga (Child and Adolescent Inpatient Mental Health Unit), MHDA: Behavioural Expectations in the Adolescent Psychiatric Inpatient Environment The annual Quality and Improvement Awards celebrate the dedication of our staff to deliver outstanding care to patients, consumers, carers and families. The awards provide a platform to recognise some of the most inspiring efforts and innovations happening across the district.
The Brolga Adolescent Inpatient Unit faces unique challenges managing behaviour in a hospital setting, where enforcing rules can sometimes trigger self - harm or aggression.
To address this, the team conducted focus groups and surveys with both staff and consumers.
As a result, they developed:
Posters for consumers outlining expectations. A written guide for staff detailing expected behaviours and consequences.
•
•
After six months, the unit saw:
A reduction in self - harm and aggression incidents, And lower re - admission rates.
•
Pictured: Brolga staff Sophie O'Keefe (RN) and Matteo Zuccalla (Clinical Psychologist). Not pictured Allen Morfoot (NUM) and Roman Kielich (Peer Worker)
•
This initiative highlights the value of co - designed, transparent communication in improving safety and outcomes.
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NSLHD Quality & Improvement Awards
Congratulations to the NSLHD Eating Disorder Service for their impactful initiative supporting parents of children with Anorexia Nervosa during inpatient care. They have worked tirelessly to strengthen family readiness, improve understanding, and empower recovery beyond discharge. Congratulations to the Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services Award RUNNER - UP: NSLHD Eating Disorder Service, MHDA – Transitioning from Paediatric Inpatient to Outpatient Care for Anorexia Nervosa: A Brief Intervention
Children and adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa are often discharged into outpatient Family Based Therapy (FBT), but some parents feel unprepared to take over care of their child ’ s illness.
To address this, Clinical Psychologists at NSLHD Eat- ing Disorder Service developed a structured, three - session intervention for parents during their child ’ s inpatient stay aimed at building understanding, confidence, and readiness for managing the illness post - discharge.
Parent feedback showed:
• Improved understanding of the eating disorder. • Greater sense of control. • Increased preparedness to support recovery at home.
Simon Hill, Simone Jacques, Alicia Duffy
HammondCare has announced a full redevelopment of the Greenwich Hospital site, set to begin con- struction on 1 April 2026. As part of this plan, Riverglen will temporarily relocate to the Manning Unit at Macquarie Hospital by March 2026. HammondCare will fund substantial capital works to support high - quality care delivery during its ex- pected three - year stay. While exact consultation and transition timelines are still being finalized, execu- tive teams are preparing a detailed consultation plan to guide the process. Ongoing communication will be maintained through town halls, forums, and regular updates to the FAQ document, ensuring transparency and keeping all stakeholders informed. Riverglen Relocation to Macquarie Hospital Mayuri Parmar
Upcoming Town Hall sessions will be circulated via email with dates, times and how to attend by MQH Executive.
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MHDA Patient Safety Culture Survey
In the recent Patient Safety Culture Survey, MHDA ’ s patient safety rating was positive:
• 71% of staff rate patient safety as Very good or Excellent
• A high proportion of staff (83%) would recommend friends or relatives to be treated within their team/ unit/work area.
• At a service level, most safety culture factors sit at or above the 2nd and 3rd quartile of the benchmark.
Strengths Incident Reporting Transfer of critical patient information Areas to Watch • Manageable workloads • Workforce conditions—workload and pacing • Collaboration between staff and mutual respect
External Benchmark—Within Top Quartile 2023 results
NSLHD 2025 Result: 73%
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Thank you Dr Shalini Narchal
Josephine Rao & Timothy Yeap
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dr Shalini Narchal for her exceptional contribution for covering as the A/Clinical Director of MHDA throughout July, while also continuing to manage her own responsibilities as the Clinical Director of Hornsby Ku - Ring - Gai Hospital MHS. Taking on such a significant leadership role, in addition to her existing duties is no small task. Yet Shalini has approached this challenged with professionalism, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to supporting both teams. During her time here, Shalini has demonstrated outstanding leadership and adaptability. Her calm and thoughtful approach, coupled with her ability to balance competing proprieties, provided reassurance and stability to the team. Shalini created a supportive and collaborative environment, and her efforts have been deeply appreciated by all who worked with her. To recognise Shalini ’ s hard work and contribution during this time, we held a thank you afternoon tea where staff had the opportunity to express their appreciation in person. This was a small way of acknowledging the big role Shalini has played in keeping things running smoothly in Dr Pradeep Jarabandahalli ’ s absence. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Pradeep for all his hard work and commitment, and for continuing in his role as A/Clinical Director of MHDA, and to warmly welcome him back into the role. On behalf of everyone, we extend our heartful gratitude to Shalini for going above and beyond over these past few weeks, and to Pradeep for his ongoing leadership. Their willingness to step up and lead so effectively is truly valued.
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Brookvale Safe Haven
Mayuri Parmar
The Brookvale Safe Haven, located on the ground level of Brookvale Community Health Centre opened in September 2024. Along with North Ryde Safe Haven, the new Brookvale Safe Haven provides a safe space for young people between the ages of 12 to 17 years to attend as an alternative to local Emergency Departments if experiencing suicidal distress.
The service is open during the hours of 4pm to 8pm, 7 days per week.
Safe Haven is part of the Towards Zero Suicide Initiative that is designed to address priorities in the Strategic Framework for Suicide Prevention in NSW 2018 - 2023.
SafeHaven Brookvale video has launched via the NSLHD Instagram page. You can find it here at @nthsydhealth https://www.instagram.com/nthsydhealth/reel/DMow19jOJn1
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Directorate Governance & Operations Unit
Directorate Governance & Operations
The Governance and Operations (DGO) Team held their 2025 Planning Day on Thursday 10 July. The session was led by Janet Edmond from the Learning and Capability Development Team who took the team through a range of group activities including how DGO contribute to high quality and safe care, a SWOT analysis, and values and attitudes that are important to us. We celebrated our many achievements for 2024 and 2025 and then turned to considering what is on the horizon for 2026 and beyond and how we can prepare for those changes. 86% of the group found the day to be ‘ very useful ’ and valued the opportunity to hear about each others roles, their contributions and coming together as a team to build shared goals.
NSLHD Administrative Professionals Day 2025
Michelle Meadham Congratulations to Winne Leung, EA to the MHDA Director of Nursing, Mark Joyce, who recently won the NSLHD Administrative Professionals Annual Award for the Macquarie Hospital site. The awards were held the Kolling Auditorium on 3rd July. As Winnie was on annual leave, Mark was on hand to accept on her behalf. Winnie is and has been an amazing asset to MHDA
Nursing services and an ever present in ensuring things run smoothly. Her organisational skills, attention to detail and ability to keep everyone on track is second to none and the service would be lost without her. She is dedicated to her role and to helping others to up skill and know where the priorities are and how to keep on top of them. MHDA IND and other events occur because of her and she is so vital to the MHDA DON role and is amazing at what she does and always goes above and beyond for the service. ”
Andrea Taylor and Mark Joyce
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“ Worried They Are Getting Worse? ”
Suzanne Glover
A Simple Question That Can Make a Big Difference Proactively asking parents, families and carers if they are worried their child is getting worse is now part of the Standard Paediatric Observation Chart (SPOC) across NSW. This clinician proactive escalation prompt is designed to ensure parental, family, carer concerns are heard early and acted on. The question “ Are you worried they are getting worse? ” is asked by clinicians during routine observations. It doesn ’ t replace existing escalation
systems like REACH but strengthens early detection of clinical deterioration by creating an earlier opportunity for parents, families, carers to raise concerns before a child ’ s condition deteriorates further.
This is part of the Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC) Deteriorating Patient Safety Net system informally known as the Between the Flags system which includes standard calling criteria, clinical emergency response systems, education and evaluation. In addition, this change is backed by growing evidence. Recent research from Monash Health demonstrated that parent, family and carer concern is often the earliest and most accurate indicator that something isn ’ t right, sometimes even before changes in vital signs appear (reference below).
NSW Health has also updated the “ We are here for you ” webpage with new resources to support families and carers to inform them regarding the change.
For more information, please contact : Suzy Glover MHDA Standard 8 Lead at Suzanne.Glover1@health.nsw.gov.au
MHDA Standard 8 Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration
Qi Wang CNC and Jamie Jeon CNE from Brolga which has been championing this initiative
https://youtu.be/KPyqlOWMSWc
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https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/:u:/r/sites/NSLHD - MHDASAFETYQUALITY/SitePages/ MHDA - Research - Conference.aspx?csf=1&web=1&e=eFMe22
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Wear it Purple Day 2025
Wear It Purple Day is coming up on Friday 29 August 2025 and all sites are encouraged to support and promote this important initiative Wear It Purple Day is a national awareness day that celebrates and supports LGBTIQ+ young people, promoting safe, empowering, and inclusive environments for everyone. This year ’ s theme is “ Bold Voices, Bright Futures ” , encouraging young people to embrace their unique jour- ney and identity To help you promote the day, a small pack of resources will be giv- en to each site prior to the event, including posters and stickers. Sites are encouraged to display these ma- terials prominently and consider other ways to celebrate the day with your teams and communities .
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You can find the event here: https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/sites/NSLHD - MHDA/_layouts/15/ Event.aspx?ListGuid=47a4460f - 1a53 - 40ec - b5ea - 95a2e5b21a53&ItemId=19
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Towards Zero Suicides
Carmen Betteridge, Clinical Program Manager Towards Zero Suicides
Northern Sydney Local Health District is committed to delivering high quality, compassionate care for people who experience suicidality, together with supporting their families and carers through this time.
The Zero Suicides in Care (ZSiC) approach is an initiative of Towards Zero Suicides (TZS), working to ensure compassionate engagement and understanding, delivering interventions and support through inpatient and community services, while also ensuring smooth transitions into suicide Aftercare service, The Way Back NSW. These elements of care, when provided consistently by caring practitioners, make up a ‘ Suicidality Care Pathway ’.
Currently, the design of NSLHDs Suicidality Care Pathway is being undertaken across sector services.
To raise awareness of the pathway and to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), we are launching a FREE webinar series in that steps through key knowledge pillars for ZSiC.
Presentations by leading experts will occur daily over the month of September 2025 focussing on:
Lived and Living Experience Populations and Context
• • • •
The Care Pathway, and Tools and Resources
Presentations reflect a ‘ whole of health ’ approach, relevant to MHDA and non - MHDA services alike, in addition to non - clinical and clinical roles, meeting the principles detailed in the Policy Directive 2022_043 Clinical Care of People Who May be Suicidal and the Suicidality Care Pathway.
The care journey is expected to strengthen a person ’ s connections with supports and services, while identifying opportunities to find a life they want to live.
With an exceptional line - up of expert speakers, each session will delve into opportunities to understand a person ’ s care journey, the research and evidence that underpins exceptional care, with practical guidance, links to tools and resources and the ‘ whole of health ’ approach. We invite everyone to join us: • Consumers and service users • Family and carers • Mental health and non - mental health staff • Clinical and non - clinical staff
Please register your interest by clicking September 2025 and promote across your network!
For more information, please email: Carmen.Betterridge@health.nsw.gov.au
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For information and to register: Towards Zero Suicides initiatives
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MHDA Rewards & Recognition 2025
The 2025 MHDA Rewards & Recognitions received 224 nominations which is an incredible effort. This shows how much hard work our staff do and the importance of celebrating their achievements. Nominations are now closed, and nominees will be shared soon.
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Health Care Interpreter Service (HCIS) Booking Portal
Julie Wright
WSLHD Health Care Interpreter Service (HCIS) which provides interpreting services to the NSLHD, is launching a new online booking portal. This will replace the current email - based process for booking interpreter services. The online booking portal:
• Replaces the time - consuming email booking system.
• Enables bookings to be amended or cancelled at any time.
• Features a “ copy ” function to replicate existing or similar requests, saving staff time.
• Includes automated email notifications that acknowledge and confirm requests.
• Provides access to historic records to track and review all past interpreting
The Health Care Interpreter Service partnered with the Multicultural Health Service to pilot the booking portal in the NSLHD in June. The feedback from services participating in the pilot has been very positive.
The implementation phase of the project will include:
• Promotion of the new portal via an email to services, Multicultural Access Committees and the NSLHD Weekly Bulletin. • A webinar on registering and using the online booking portal for staff. The session will be recorded for staff who cannot attend. • Updating of the NSLHD ABCD Chart for booking interpreters.
Information on the registration process will also be provided at the Webinar: Using the New WSLHD HCIS Booking Portal on Thursday 24 July 2025 at 2:00pm.
Staff who need to book an interpreter urgently can still call the HCIS Call Centre directly on 9912 3800.
The booking portal will be used to book telephone, onsite and video interpreting appointments that are non - urgent and required in five days or more.
For further information, please contact Cathy Butler, Manager, Multicultural Health Service, at Cathy.Butler@health.nsw.gov.au.
Booking Portal: Home Interpreter Service Portal
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Amy Jackson, Andrew Woodward, Lurendharen Ruddy, Suzanne Glover, and Veronica Morton led the implementation of the ventrogluteal intramuscular injection (VGIMI) pilot at NBCMHS. This initiative represents innovation in clinical practice, introducing a safer, evidence - informed site for the administration of long - acting antipsychotic medications. The project aligns with MHDA priorities by enhancing consumers safety, service delivery, and quality of care, while also strengthening clinicians ’ skills, confidence, and competence in safe medication administration. Building on the success of the pilot, the next phase of the VGIMI rollout is set to commence across additional MHDA locations, extending this model district - wide.
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https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/:u:/r/sites/NSLHD - MHDASAFETYQUALITY/SitePages/ MHDA - Research - Conference.aspx?csf=1&web=1&e=eFMe22
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Generative Artificial Intelligence
NSW Health has issued an Advice on the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence regarding the use of Generative AI: basic guidance | Digital NSW . All staff are required to review this bulletin and understand their responsibilities when using GenAI technologies. GenAI refers to computer systems that generate text, images, or other media by learning from data. While GenAI can greatly assist administrative tasks—such as drafting documents, preparing meetings, and generating ideas—it carries significant risks, especially concerning privacy, security, and accuracy.
To ensure safe and ethical use of GenAI, please adhere to the following recommendations:
• Never enter personal, patient, or sensitive information into any GenAI tool • Always apply your professional and clinical judgement when reviewing AI - generated content • Be aware that AI - generated outputs may be inaccurate or biased • Attribute any GenAI - generated content appropriately • Follow Cyber Security NSW Generative Artificial Intelligence End - user guidance • Evaluate risks associated with AI solutions using the NSW Artificial Intelligence Assessment Framework Approved Platform: Staff are encouraged to use Microsoft Copilot, which includes enterprise data protection. Copilot is accessible via SharePoint, Outlook, and Teams. When using Copilot, do not input identifiable patient or sensitive staff information. The new AI Hub is now live — your central resource for all things AI across the organisation. Find the latest updates, practical tools, policies, events, and contacts in one place. You can access the AI Hub via the shared services tab on SharePoint. NSLHD is committed to responsible AI use and is partnering with Macquarie University and the Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre to develop and implement a robust AI governance framework. The NSLHD Library provides a comprehensive training and resources Library Guide on AI in Healthcare to support your research and ethical use of AI.
Staff interested in AI are invited to join the bi - monthly NSLHD AI Community of Practice, chaired by the Chief Clinical Information Officer team, and to explore the new Artificial Intelligence Hub (AI Hub) for resources, events, and updates. For further information or enquiries, or if you would like to join the AI Community Practice:
Please contact: NSLHD - DHS - AI@health.nsw.gov.au
Community of Practice
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Courses at a Glance September 2025
LCD Team
September 2025
Monday, 1 September 2025 NSLHD District Orientation Respecting the Difference: Be the Difference Speaking up for Safety Training Reflective Practice Clinical Supervision Tuesday, 2 September 2025 MHDA Orientation Day 2 Respecting the Difference: Be the Difference Wednesday, 3 September 2025 MHDA Orientation Day 3 Teaching & Learning Series - Supporting Learners
Tuesday, 9 September 2025 Domestic Violence Routine Screening Training
Wednesday, 10 September 2025 Sexual Safety in MHDA
Thursday, 11 September 2025 Trauma Informed Care: Three Phased Approach - Processing & Integration Day 1
Friday, 12 September 2025 Trauma Informed Care: Three Phased Approach - Processing & Integration Day 2
Tuesday, 16 September 2025 MHDA Suicide Risk Assessment & Management
Wednesday, 17 September 2025 Teaching & Learning Series - Assessment Skills Coaching in the Workplace - Day 1 Safewards Model and Intervention - Macquarie Hospital Staff
Thursday, 18 September 2025 GradStart Practical Skills Day
Tuesday, 23 September 2025 GradStart Program Block Three - Day 1
Wednesday, 24 September 2025 GradStart Program Block Three - Day 2 Respecting the Difference: Be the Difference
Thursday, 25 September 2025 GradStart Program Block Two - Day 3
Enquiries: NSLHD - MHDAEducation@health.nsw.gov.au
Enrolments via My Health Learning Cost: Nil for NSLHD employees
Page 29 | NSLHD Mental Health Drug and Alcohol News | August 2025
Page 30 | NSLHD Mental Health Drug and Alcohol News | August 2025
Thank you Please submit any good news stories, compliments, achievements, examples of positive consumer or service outcomes, staff changes, collaborations with other organisations, developments in services, opportunities for community involvement, papers published and conference presentations.
All submissions must be endorsed for submission by the line manager of the person contributing the article and the Service Director.
Please send your feedback/articles to be published in the September Edition on or before 8 September 2025 to Mayuri Parmar: mayuri.parmar@health.nsw.gov.au
Mental Health Drug & Alcohol Hospital Newsletter | August 2025
Publication and Contribution Schedule for 2025
October is Mental Health Month Please let us know all the activities you are planning!
Contributions due by
Publication Date
8 September 2025
22 September 2025
1 December 2025
15 December 2025
Follow NSLHD MHDA on Facebook for updates on our services, events, and other information
Page 31 | NSLHD Mental Health Drug and Alcohol News | August 2025
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