New Women's Clinic at Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is deeply grateful to Healthy North Coast for a Primary Health Network (PHN) grant that enables us to have a dedicated nurse onsite at our Women’s Space for the next 12 months.

This partnership strengthens the quality and range of services available to women accessing the Women’s Space, providing essential health care in a safe, familiar and supportive environment. At its heart, the program aims to reduce the impact of chronic disease for women experiencing or at risk of homelessness, a group who often face significant barriers to accessing mainstream health services.

Many women experiencing homelessness are less likely to receive regular testing, early intervention or ongoing treatment for chronic conditions. By bringing health care directly into the Women’s Space, we are removing barriers and meeting women where they are, both physically and emotionally.

“This partnership with Healthy North Coast is about dignity, trust and access,” said Damian Farrell, Manager of Fletcher Street Cottage. “By having a nurse onsite in the Women’s Space, we’re creating a setting where women feel safe to prioritise their health, often for the first time in a long while.”

Chronic diseases, also known as non-communicable diseases, are long-term conditions that often progress over time. While they are not usually curable, they are often manageable with the right support. Common examples include cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and osteoporosis, as well as mental health conditions including depression and anxiety.

Through this program, women have access to Kate, a contracted nurse from One Bridge. Kate provides health assessments, referrals to pathology, wound care management and support with other health needs, all within a confidential and welcoming space.

“The Women’s Space is built on relationships and trust,” said Bec Robinson, Relationships Manager at Byron Community Centre. “Having a nurse embedded in the program means women can talk about their health in a calm, respectful environment, without fear or judgement. It makes a huge difference.”

This initiative reflects Fletcher Street Cottage’s commitment to holistic, person-centred care and the power of partnerships to create meaningful change for women doing it tough in our community.

For further information about the Women’s Space or the onsite nursing service, please contact Fletcher Street Cottage on (02) 6685 7830 or fsc@byroncentre.com.au.

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The Primary Care Impact Grants Chronic Disease Prevention Program - Byron Community Centre Ltd Grant is funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program.