A government spokesperson has contradicted information presented to a Legislative Council subcomittee inquiry into Tasmania’s health system regarding three adolescents admitted to the Launceston General Hospital because of a lack of accommodation.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Nursing director for women and children services at the LGH Janette Tonks told the inquiry on Tuesday that three adolescents in crisis had been admitted to the hospital’s ward 4K or remained there after a suitable discharge date because no accommodation was available.
Human Services Minister Jacquie Petrusma did not respond to requests for information on crisis accommodation for adolescents with high-risk needs, and information on how many adolescents were admitted to the LGH under similar circumstances this year.
“It is in incorrect that the three individuals were in hospital due to a lack of crisis accommodation,” a spokesperson said in response.
Dr Catherine Robinson from Anglicare Tasmania’s social action and research centre criticised Tasmania’s youth support systems, noting the term crisis accommodation is more appropriately used for adults, with adolescents needing dedicated “crisis care”.
She said it made no sense to ensure young children were fully equipped with educational opportunities before leaving them without comprehensive support in their challenging adolescence years.
“Our state does not adequately provide for unaccompanied homeless children, meaning there are not enough safe options that could provide not just accommodation … but actual care, age-appropriate care,” Dr Robinson said.
“We need to question our state’s commitment to adolescent health and wellbeing.”
Dr Robinson said she was concerned that hospital emergency services were under pressure to provide community and social services.
Health Minister Michael Ferguson told the inquiry he was aware of complex family needs around the three adolescents, and he would be working with Ms Petrusma to find solutions for the future.