People in NSW living with complex mental illness will be supported to live well and participate in their communities through a $64 million investment over three years.

Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies today announced the extension of NSW Government funding for the Community Living Supports (CLS) program, with more than $21 million annually for three years.

“This funding will help tailor individual support for people living with mental illnesses to assist them to participate in their communities to the fullest,” Mrs Davies said.

“The CLS program helps individuals to work with local support workers, clinicians, family members and friends to develop a unique support plan to assist day-to-day activities.”

Support includes help with shopping, finances, cooking, catching public transport, accessing education, getting a job, remembering mental and physical health appointments, taking medication and getting involved in sporting and social activities.

“Community participation and avoiding social isolation are important elements of recovery for a person living with mental illness and this program is designed to provide this support,” Mrs Davies added.

The CLS program is delivered in partnership with community organisations Flourish, Neami, Wellways, Parramatta Mission, Mission Australia, New Horizons and Open Minds.

More than 750 people in NSW are currently being supported by CLS, which provides flexible and varying levels of support according to daily individual needs.

CLS funding is part of a NSW Government investment of $400 million over four years to strengthen early intervention and specialist community mental health teams, enhance psychosocial supports and transition long-stay patients into the community.

For local mental health services call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.