Who we are
The WA Association for Mental Health Inc. (WAAMH) was incorporated in 1966 as an umbrella organisation for the small network of church and charitable bodies providing voluntary services for hospitals and other institutions.
Today, WAAMH is the peak body of the community-managed mental health sector in Western Australia, with over 100 organisational and individual members.
Our vision is that Western Australian community-managed mental health organisations will lead the way in supporting, and promoting the human rights of people with mental illness and their families and carers, through the provision of inclusive, well-governed community-based services focused on recovery.
What we do
WAAMH engages in three key priority areas of work:
• Leadership, representation and advocacy—by drawing on the expertise and experiences of our members, consumers and carers to advocate locally and nationally for effective public policy on mental health issues.
• Sector development and capacity building—by supporting the sector to deliver recovery-oriented, person-centered and family-inclusive services, through sharing expertise, fostering collaboration, and delivering targeted workforce development and training activities.
• Mental health promotion and human rights advocacy—by promoting positive attitudes to mental health and advocating for the human rights of people with mental health issues and their families and carers.
Governed by a Board of Management WAAMH aims to;
- Represent mental health non-government organisations
- Develop and influence policy relevant to people affected by mental illness
- Advocate for the interests of people affected by mental illness
- Assist in the development of the non-government mental health sector
- Participate in community education.
WAAMH has strong links with state and national mental health organisations, and has through these organisations links with overseas mental health bodies.
We hope that this website will raise awareness of our role and activities. That it will encourage people and organisations to learn more about us. To have a better understanding of mental health issues and how they affect individuals, their families and the community.
Comments/suggestions welcome.
If you would like to comment on any aspect of this website, or make suggestions as to how we can improve it please contact us either by email by filling in our feedback form or by writing or telephoning us. View the contact details for WAAMH.