RAMHI is a coalition of workers, organisations, consumer and carer representatives who share a commitment to mental health in the Blue Mountains. RAMHI members include service providers in the government, non government and community sectors, consumer group representatives and representatives of organisations with a commitment to and interest in mental health.

RAMHI regards mental health as a fundamental human rights issue as articulated in

- 1975 UN Declaration - Rights for Disabled Persons, and the

- 1991 UN Principles for the Protection of Persons with Mental Illness and for the Improvement of Mental Health Care

RAMHI works to promote the interests of the Blue Mountains community in the context of

- Fourth National Mental Health Plan: an agenda for collaborative government action in mental health 2009-2014, and the

- NSW Mental Health Strategy 2007 – 2012

RAMHI recognises that for individuals and families mental health issues often coexist with issues such as homelessness, domestic violence, substance abuse, child abuse and neglect.

RAMHI's mission is to promote mental and emotional wellbeing in the Blue Mountains, recognising the rights of people with mental health issues to fully participate in community life.

RAMHI strives to:

· Promote mental health as core business for all in the community service sector in the Blue Mountains LGA

· Increase knowledge and understanding of mental health issues and resources in the wider community

· Achieve accessible, sustainable and appropriate mental health services in the Blue Mountains

In order to achieve these goals RAMHI will use its collective strength, skills and networks to:

· Help to demystify mental illness and highlight its prevalence in the community

· Promote cooperation between the community sector, government, generalist and clinical services

· Provide a forum for advice, consultation and cross-sector collaboration around mental health issues and initiatives

· Advocate and lobby on mental health issues and service delivery gaps

· Enhance worker capacity to respond to mental health issues

Click here to download RAMHI resources.