Integrated facility a game changer for mental health services at Banksia Hill

The $29.1 million unit, named Djin-Djinabiny – meaning Good Spirits Becoming – was built to provide a physically safe environment where vulnerable young people can be continuously observed and managed.

Djin-Djinaby is led by mental health staff, who maintain a 24-hour presence at the facility. It’s intended for short stays by young people to receive the care and support they need before returning to a general accommodation unit when they are ready.

The self-contained unit has eight standard bedrooms and two observation rooms for high-risk detainees, a large day room and secure outdoor recreation areas. Staff have access to medical rooms for consultations and interviews.

The facility is one of a suite of infrastructure projects developed to more safely accommodate young people in custody, including a $158.5 million new youth detention facility that will adjoin Banksia Hill.

Young people referred to the mental health team are assessed for potential admission to the CCU.

Detainees considered for placement in the unit include those deemed at imminent risk to self, experiencing acute psychological or emotional distress, suffering acute mental health issues, or too vulnerable to be safely managed in a general unit.

Young people housed in Djin-Djinaby will have access to education, recreation, Aboriginal cultural programs, and visits by Elders and mentors.

The CCU’s operations are informed by the Department of Justice’s Model of Care for youth detention. Its purpose is distinct from Banksia Hill’s Intensive Support Unit, which is utilised to address behavioural issues among young people.

“This state-of-the-art facility greatly enhances our care for young people in detention by providing trauma-informed support from mental health specialists when it is required,” Department Director General Kylie Maj said.

“Djin-Djinaby has been skilfully designed to provide a safe space where trained staff can provide one-on-one interventions, reducing the need for detainees to be taken off-site for treatment,” Ms Maj said.

Corrective Services Commissioner Brad Royce said the facility struck the right balance between safety and security for young people and staff.

“The CCU gives us a fresh option for the placement of young people to minimise the risk of harm to themselves or others while in custody,” Commissioner Royce said.