Evaluation of NSW Community-based Mental Health Programs - HASI Plus (Short-Summary)

Summary

The Ministry commissioned the Social Policy Research Centre (SPRC) to evaluate the HASI Plus program. The evaluation involved 2 rounds of qualitative interviews and focus groups, as well as analysis of quantitative program data and statewide outcomes data about consumers. The evaluation ran from August 2018 to August 2021.

HASI Plus supported 101 consumers in the study period. Overall, the evaluation shows that the program is working well and achieving most of its intended aims.

The factors identified as most important for the success of HASI Plus were:

  • the access to safe and secure housing as part of the service model
  • intensive on-site supports
  • strong local partnerships between CMOs and LHDs
  • the flexible, person-centred approach to service provision.

What is the HASI Plus Program?

Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative Plus (HASI Plus) is a program for people with severe mental illness and significant difficulties managing day to day living. The program is community-based, transitional, rehabilitation and recovery-oriented. HASI Plus integrates clinical and intensive psychosocial support that is available up to 16 or 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, with stable, community-based accommodation.

HASI Plus is a statewide program funded by the NSW Ministry of Health. The HASI Plus service model is delivered locally as a partnership between host local health districts (LHDs) and specialist mental health community managed organisations (CMOs). Started in 2013, there are currently 70 HASI Plus places across 8 accommodation sites hosted in 4 LHDs.

File Size: 400 kb
Type: Report
Date of Publication: 21 December 2022
Author: Mental Health
SHPN: (MH) 221160