In light of government instructions and public health advice, ACON is implementing changes to its regional services. These measures have been enacted to ensure we continue to deliver essential services to regional communities, while safeguarding the health of our clients, staff and volunteers.
These changes apply to:
- ACON Hunter (129 Maitland Road, Islington)
- ACON Northern Rivers (Suit 4P Conway Court, 17 Conway Street, Lismore)
Both offices will continue to operate with reduced hours and limited staff. Until further notice, branches will be open Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am-2pm for the Needle & Syringe Program and access to sexual health resources.
Physical distancing measures are in place and public health information and signage have been distributed and installed at both regional offices.
ACON counselling and care coordination services continue to operate. These services are now being delivered by phone and online.
ACON’s regional outreach service will continue to liaise with communities and stakeholders across NSW, and will provide support by phone and online.
“The safety and wellbeing of our clients, community members, employees and volunteers are our top priority,” said ACON CEO Nicolas Parkhill. “It is for this reason we have implemented these changes to our regional services.
“But we also understand the need to be able to continue delivering essential health services. ACON remains committed to supporting our communities in regional NSW with programs and services to improve their health and wellbeing.
“As a health organisation, ACON is closely monitoring the situation and we continue to take guidance from state and federal health agencies,” Parkhill said. “We urge our communities to stay informed and keep up to date with the latest health information and advice.
“Things are evolving daily, and we are constantly reviewing our activities. We will inform our communities as developments and updates come to hand.
“In these uncertain times, we remind our communities of ACON’s statement released on Friday 20 March to not engage in casual sex at this time.” View the statement here.
“It is crucially important we follow advice on physical distancing. We must do all that we can to help efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.”
Parkhill urge those needing counselling support to contact ACON for assistance.
“We know that some people may find the current situation challenging and overwhelming. So we are reminding everyone that counselling support is there for those who need it.”
ACON Head Office in Sydney (414 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills) remains open with limited staff. However, the temporary closure of the ACON Meeting Centre has been extended until the end of April.
For more information, contact ACON’s Regional Services and counselling services, go to www.acon.org.au.
ENDS
Media contact: David Alexander, ACON Media and Communications
[email protected] | 0428 477 042