Infant mental health scholarships closing soon

Infant mental health clinicians have until Friday to apply for a $394,592 State Government scholarship scheme to up-skill their expertise.

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said up to $13,000 was available to clinicians for post graduate university studies or approved training courses and workshops.

"The needs of infants, and families with young children, differ from the needs of families with children at other stages of development," Mrs Morton said.

"Research shows 11 per cent of children aged two years had behaviour problems and many can be prevented by supporting parents to develop strong, stable relationships with their infants."

The Minister said some of the funding could support non-government organisations to back-fill a clinician's position with up to $8,000 of funding.

"This is a significant investment in up-skilling the Western Australian workforce to meet the mental health demands of our community," she said.

"Investing in early intervention and prevention will enable us to reduce the long-term costs associated with mental illness in our community."

Priority will be given to those working in non-government organisations, rural and remote locations, and those working directly with infants and their families, however, clinicians and service providers in related environments are also encouraged to apply.

Scholarship applications close on August 26. Download an application form at http://www.aaimhi.org or for more information email aaimhiwascholarships@gmail.com.
 

The scheme is administered by the Australian Association for Infant Mental Health Incorporated (AAIMHI) for courses completed by December 2012.

Minister's office - 9213 7250