The group are calling for more community mental health staff in Kempsey to help ease the strain on nursing staff. 

Delegate from the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association, Solange Villagran, said mental health resources in the local area are severely understaffed.

“We need more staff for community mental health. We’re very understaffed when compared to Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour,” she said. 

“The local health district is offering us temporary replacement but we need permanent staff.”

“When we don’t have community mental health care, we put strain on emergency services,” Ms Villagran said.

The Kempsey District Hospital branch is calling on the NSW Government to implement a nurse to patient ratio system in emergency departments and community health that would provide guaranteed minimum ratios, creating a safer environment for the delivery of healthcare to the local community.

“Because of the understaffed conditions, we risk delaying treatment to local patients who need it.”

Delegate from the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association, Sue Thompson, said Kempsey specifically needs more staff. 

“I have lived and worked in the area for over 20 years, I care about the community and want to ensure we have a safe and efficient response for mental health patients. At this time, we don’t have enough staff to do that safely,” she said. 

Regional organiser from the Health Services Union Michael Kearns said staff in the area are struggling to keep up with the number of patients. 

“There is concern that staff are unable to keep up with the amount of mental health patients in Kempsey. The staff number here is half the size of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour and yet there is the same amount of work load,” he said. 

“We’re calling for immediate permanent recruitment for mental health services for Kempsey.”

If you, or anyone you know needs help contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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