Dear resident of the Ku-ring-gai electorate 

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, I want to thank each and every person for your cooperation during these unprecedented times.

This health crisis is not over yet and it has brought uncertainty in many aspects of our lives.

Increased anxiety and other mental health impacts have been observed across all age groups and it is something we need to talk about.

At first instance, if you need help you should consult with your local GP.

Other mental health support is available.

We don’t want our young people or anyone in our community to think that services are overwhelmed and that they won’t receive the help they need, if they ask for it.

The NSW Government has invested $80m in mental health programs in response to COVID-19, including increased mental health and crisis support services for children, young people and adults.

Important links to support services and resources is available of my website – https://www.alisterhenskens.com.au/useful-links

Note: if you have issues opening the links, please copy and paste them into a different internet browser.

For immediate help, you can call the 24/7 Kids Helpline (5-25yrs) on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

In respect of the public health response to the virus, please continue to do the following:

• Practice social distancing of 1.5m separation in all aspects of life;
• Regularly wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser;
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing with a tissue or a flexed elbow;
• Make sure you stay home if you are unwell; and
• Wear a mask on public transport or in places where social distancing cannot be adhered to.

Please get tested immediately if you or someone you know has the mildest symptoms of the virus including a fever, cough, tiredness, sore throat and shortness of breath, particularly if you are a returned traveller, or have been in contact with a confirmed case, by calling your local GP, Healthdirect Hotline on 1800 022 222, or visit the nearest COVID-19 testing clinic.

I recommend you visit www.nsw.gov.au/coronavirus regularly for up-to-date information and the latest advice and to find a COVID-19 Clinic for testing visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/coronavirus-clinics   

Stay safe and well.

Kind regards

Alister