The local community has thrown its support behind a fundraising campaign to purchase 31 new beds for Latrobe Regional Hospital’s Flynn Unit.
The unit is the region’s only inpatient facility for people requiring acute support for mental health issues and has more than 1000 admissions every year.
The recently purchased beds offer improved safety and comfort and are able to be electronically raised or lowered.
The hospital’s Christmas Giving initiative raised $58,000 for the major upgrade.
The campaign kicked off last December with ‘The Magic of Christmas’ Carols event in Morwell.
LRH mental health director Cayte Hoppner said donations were received over the festive season from individuals, businesses and service organisations.
“There was no hesitation when we explained donations would be going toward the upgrade of beds in the Flynn Unit,” Ms Hoppner said.
“I think our community has a greater awareness of the challenges people face with their mental health and the Christmas Giving initiative was a practical way to help.”
The old beds, which are still functional, are being donated to Rotary for charitable projects overseas.
