As the Women’s Recovery Network (Wren) marks its first anniversary, the team behind the initiative remains dedicated to expanding access to this groundbreaking mental health service, which was launched in response to critical findings from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s mental health system.
Established in 2023, Wren was developed following the Commission’s recommendation for the creation of a gender-specific mental health service. Aimed at addressing the unique challenges women face in mental healthcare, Wren provides a safe and supportive environment for women dealing with complex mental health issues, including eating disorders and perinatal mental health concerns. Dr. Jennifer Babb, director of the Women’s Statewide Mental Health Service, emphasizes the importance of Wren’s approach, noting that “gender is a social determinant of care, which is why Wren is so vital.”
A Tailored, Trauma-Informed Approach
Wren goes beyond traditional mental health services by offering gender-specific, trauma-informed care, addressing not only mental health but also the underlying traumas many women face. Dr. Babb highlights that most women admitted to the network have a history of trauma, which requires a nuanced, compassionate approach. “Wren is what happens when we listen and act,” she says, “it’s not just a women’s-only unit—it’s a place that delivers care specifically designed for women’s needs.”
Incorporating Lived Experience in Every Aspect of Care
One of the hallmarks of Wren’s pioneering approach is the integration of a lived experience workforce at every level of service delivery. This includes leadership roles, systems design, administration, and clinical care. Maria Bradshaw, Consumer Consultant and leader of Wren’s co-design working group, explains the importance of this model: “We continually implement feedback from our co-design groups, ensuring that the service evolves in line with the needs and experiences of those it aims to help.”
The feedback-driven, co-designed approach ensures that Wren remains responsive to the needs of the women it serves, with input from those who have experienced mental health challenges themselves.
Strong Support and Growing Demand
In its first year, Wren has already seen over 300 admissions. Petra Glare, CEO of Ramsay Clinic Albert Road, expressed pride in the network’s achievements. “The unit is not only well-utilized but also deeply appreciated by the women who seek care here,” said Glare. “We’re proud to have provided care to hundreds of women and look forward to supporting even more in the years ahead.”
Victoria’s Minister for Mental Health, Ingrid Stitt, recently visited Wren and praised the service as a model for future mental health reforms. “This is what reforming our mental health system is all about,” Minister Stitt said. “It’s about making lasting change to the services available and creating new models of care that truly meet the needs of our communities.”
As Wren enters its second year, the commitment to improving women’s mental healthcare remains stronger than ever, setting the stage for continued growth and transformation in the mental health sector.
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