Having access to clean clothing is an important part of dignity, comfort, and personal hygiene. But many patients arriving on the Avondale Acute Assessment Mental Health Unit come in crisis, often with only the clothes they are wearing due to homelessness, emergency situations, or police involvement. Some are admitted under the Mental Health Act and cannot return home for belongings, and others have no support network to bring essential items.
To make sure patients feel safe and cared for from the moment they arrive, the Unit has been offering emergency clothing. Thanks to funding from Health Stars, staff have now been able to expand this supply, ensuring a wider range of comfortable essentials is available for anyone who needs them.
Aimee, Activity Coordinator at Avondale, said:
“Emergency clothing ensures every patient receives the same compassionate standard of care. It helps people feel respected and safe at a time when they may feel overwhelmed. The new funding has allowed the team to stock more practical items, such as jogging bottoms, T‑shirts, and vests, in a variety of sizes, particularly for male patients where supply was limited.”
Aimee added:
“Clean, comfortable clothing helps patients maintain dignity, engage in assessments, and begin their recovery with confidence. Most importantly, it sends a clear message: You matter, and you are safe here.”
