Getting a job can be so beneficial to your recovery, especially for people who have had a long term Mental Health Issue. Here's some of the reasons why:

1. It gives you stability.

2. It gives you security.

3. It gives you independence in your life.

4. It gives you resources (MONEY MONEY MONEY) to get things you have always wanted but could never afford. I know as I have been able to buy a fridge, washing machine, big screen TV, computer, motorbike, and a car.

5. You learn new skills.

6. You make new friends.

7. Basically a JOB does more for my recovery than any medical or psychological help.

For our social and community participation this week we retraced our path back out past Cotswold Hills and made our way out to the Toowoomba Wellcamp airport for a sticky beak. We paused for some minutes here to appreciate this new installation.

As mentioned in the December newsletter, there was a planning day on 11 December 2019. More than 25 members and staff were in attendance and many suggestions were made on ways to improve Toowoomba Clubhouse. Eleven main themes were identified and action has begun to implement some changes. Please get involved and give any feedback on how these changes are working out. There will be an official review in April 2020 to determine whether the changes are for the better and that they address what members asked for.

[Interview conducted by member Amie J for our January 2020 newsletter. Bryce is former Coordinator of Toowoomba Clubhouse]

Q: What was the process of getting funding to establish Toowoomba Clubhouse?

A: “The process of getting first funding we had this marvellous arrangement so many people wanted input. There were two people here in the submission stage myself and a health information professional and we’d write and work on the submission every day and at the end of each day other prospective members and carers and other professionals would come in and tear apart what we’d written and produce something much better. At the same time everybody was having fun I think because people were so dedicated to the idea."