Delivering dignity, that’s what Central Coast Health’s (CCH) two new Mental Health Op Shops aim to do.
These safe spaces have been set up at Wyong and Gosford Hospitals to allow mental health patients to access good quality second hand clothing as well as new underwear, socks and footwear free-of-charge during an unexpected admission.
According to CCH Mental Health Activities Manager, Niki Wardrope, the service helps patients during what can be a difficult period in their lives by giving them choice of what to wear as well as hassle free access to clean basics during a stay at an inpatient unit.
Wardrope said that the generosity of staff, community members and community managed organisations had enabled the Mental Health team to keep both op shops stocked, but added that continuous donations would be needed to keep the service running long term.
“All new and second hand donated items are washed by our wonderful volunteers prior to being made available in op shops,” Wardrope said.
Dilon Luke