End suicide and suffering for people with mental illness and disabilities

Eligibility - Queensland residents
Principal Petitioner:
Christopher Paterson
17 Civetta Court
DAKABIN QLD 4503
Total Signatures - 1,019
Sponsoring Member: The Clerk of the Parliament
Posting Date: 4/5/2018
Closing Date: 1/9/2018
Tabled Date: 4/9/2018
Responded By: Hon Dr Steven Miles MP on 4/10/2018
TO: The Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland

Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that whilst clinical services are integral to mental health recovery there are gaps in the system when support services are time limited in business hours and generally focus on talking therapies and medication.

Projects proposed by Bamboo Projects Education, such as the first wheelchair-access boat, offer its services for free in Australia. These projects support at risk people using outdoor therapies which transcend a medical model and gives opportunity for authentic, inclusive relationships to grow creating community connection.

Bamboo Projects’ case studies show their services: create mateship, improve participants’ mental health, report a reduction in suicidal thoughts and improve physical health, stop using illegal drugs, along with gain and keep employment. Families report experiencing more connection within their family unit.

Outdoor therapies provide an alternative environment to a doctor's office allowing for more scope for a relationship to be built; a natural flow of conversation and builds shared memories, boosts self-esteem, connection and inclusiveness in society.

Through water based therapy activities, such as fishing and kayaking, studies have shown improved immunity and the management of pain, including the treatment of depression and anxiety.

The Bamboo Projects Education blueprint can support other local charities and organisations in servicing the community. Ultimately, the end goal is to end suicide and suffering for people with mental illness and disabilities.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to support mental illness and disabilities by prioritising funding for outdoor therapies projects proposed by Bamboo Projects Education.