Friendly faces there when you need
• Physical Health Worker Scott Tomkins and Mental Health Worker Robyn Freeman.
By Taylor Clyne
September 30, 2020
Local mental and physical health services have never been better with an expansive list of support options to suit the needs of the community led by friendly faces Robyn Freeman and Scott Tomkins from the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS).
Robyn works as a Mental Health Worker and Scott is the Physical Health Worker, both based at 29A King Street offering face-to-face sessions and support across both sectors.
The pair are part of the RFDS primary health team working across eight rural and remote local government regions throughout Tasmania.
They are supporting people to build understanding of their chronic health conditions in order to better self-manage their health and reduce hospitalisations.
Robyn said her primary role is supporting clients to reduce the risk or severity of mental ill health.
“My work includes active listening, problem solving, skills development and confidence building, crisis support, education and advocacy.
“I work from a strengths-based, holistic approach that is client-centred, compassionate, collaborative and pragmatic,” she said.
Scott is originally from the UK; Northamptonshire and he loves a chat about anything to do with exploring Tasmania’s countryside and rescue dogs.
“Through a holistic approach I enjoy engaging and educating my clients and using my experience to tailor individualised progressive treatments for everything from muscle imbalances and musculoskeletal issues to poor posture or pre-existing conditions,” he said.
“My passion is assessing, treating and rehabilitating participants on a journey to reach their optimal goal. “This might range from being comfortable for work or recreational activities, to peak performance in a chosen sport.”
Through the RFDS their services are flexible and provided free of charge.
Community members are welcome to make appointments directly with Robyn without the need for a referral however referrals are also accepted.
“With client consent, I work in with GPs and other health and community service providers to support clients to achieve their goals and improve their health and wellbeing.”
Scott’s role is engaging with communities within the Dorset municipality and providing a service that not only provides educational advice but also allows the community to engage in exercise therapy programs and health programs.
“Our activities are designed for people living with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dementia or mental illness,” he said.
If you’d like to get in touch to hear more about how these wonderful people can help you please call Robyn Freeman on 0488 609 908 or Scott Tomkins on 0428 955 842.