A weekly mental health clinic has launched as part of a pilot programme from the Bermuda Hospitals Board and the Department of Health.

The clinic began at the Hamilton Health Centre on Victoria Street on October 8, and will continue to be held on Fridays between 9am and noon.

Anna Neilson-Williams, acting chief of psychiatry at BHB, said: “We are committed to bringing mental health services closer to those who need it and in settings where clients will feel more relaxed.

“In this regard, the Hamilton Health Centre is an ideal venue for the mental health clinic.”

As part of the programme the BHB provides two nurses who offer mental health screenings, assessments, consultations and treatment.

It is expected that as the pilot progresses, a psychiatrist and psychiatric resident physician will going the programme to provide additional mental health support.

Dr Neilson-Williams said the services will be available to anyone who already benefits from public health services at the clinic, including walk-in patients and referrals.

She added: “Existing Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute clients can also be scheduled for appointments.

“Persons can be referred or self-present to the mental health clinic where they will be triaged.”

Scott Pearman, BHB Deputy CEO, said the programme aligns with the BHB’s strategic plan to provide mental health services in established healthcare settings.

The BHB previously piloted a mental health clinic in a general practitioner's practice and at the Lamb Foggo Urgent Care Centre in St David’s.

Mr Pearman said: “Our aim is to integrate with community-based providers to deliver mental healthcare and support in non-institutional settings.

“Embedding the mental health clinic in the Hamilton Health Centre provides its clients better access to these services in a confidential and neutral setting.”

David Kendell, director of the Department of Health, said they were happy to partner with the BHB on the programme.

He said: “Our staff will also benefit from regular workshops and training in mental health from the MWI professionals.

“This is an important aspect of the agreement as we work to provide a holistic approach to public health services for the entire community.”

For more information on the mental health clinic at the Hamilton Health Centre, call 239-2261.

The crisis hotline for all mental health services is 239-1111.