READ the incredible stories of people whose lives have been touched by the PHaMs program
Welcome to the Stories page of Bring Back PHaMs! Here, we document the journeys and experiences of individuals whose lives have been touched by the PHaMs program, and those have been impacted by its de-funding. These stories are a testament to the power of PHaMs and highlight the need for its swift reinstatement.
We need phams back in rural and remote australia
yvette’s poem
In November 2023, our founder Hayley, took the stage at the WA Rural and Remote Mental Health Conference 2023.
As Hayley spoke, a member of the audience, Yvette was moved to capture her emotions through a poem, a reflection of her own journey amid the Bring Back PHaMs campaign. Hailing from the Pilbara, Yvette strongly believes that there needs to be more mental health support there for her mob.
Yvette generously granted us permission to share her powerful and, at times, confronting poem. This heartfelt piece is a testament to why it is so crucial to Bring Back PHaMs.
Click the button below to read Yvette's moving words.
PHAMS leads to employment
SONJA’s story
Sonja had a unique and powerful connection with the Personal Helpers and Mentors (PHaMs) program as a service provider. Her story sheds light on the critical role PHaMs played in countless lives before its funding was redirected to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Sonja's journey is a testament to the positive impact of PHaMs on individuals experiencing with mental health challenges.
PHAMS Supporting Fathers
JAMIE’s STORY
Read about Jamie, a father struggling with confidence and living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Jamie’s goals were to improve his parenting skills and better connect with his young children.
A strengths-based approach helped to improve Jamie’s confidence as a father.
By the end of the program, Jamie reported feeling more positive about his abilities as a father.
Sharing Stories of Transformation
Hayley Harris’ story
At the age of 17, life became overwhelming, leading Hayley to shut down completely. She withdrew from school, isolated herself from her family, and cut off contact with friends, effectively disconnecting from the world. This state of despair persisted for 18 months, during which Hayley contemplated death and suicide. Hayley's mother tirelessly searched for suitable psychosocial support services and eventually found one that she was eligible for - PHaMs.
Share your story
Complete this online form to express interest in telling your story.
After completing this form, Bring Back PHaMs will contact you to discuss further details, including how you would like your story to be shared.
All questions are optional.
By sharing your personal story, you can make a difference. We believe in the strength of collective stories to effectively demonstrate to the government and the public why investing in programs like PHaMs is essential.
While data and percentages provide valuable insights, it is the power of personal stories that truly shapes perceptions, ignites inspiration, and drives positive change.
We warmly welcome stories from previous consumers of the PHaMs service, as well as from carers and service providers. Your story is a vital piece of the puzzle in our advocacy for the program's return.
Take Action Today!
The PHaMs program stands apart with its approach, focusing on individuals' strengths rather than their deficits. It empowers participants to define their own recovery path, providing support without the need for a formal diagnosis. Whether self-referral or through the guidance of caring family members or service providers, PHaMs opens doors to new possibilities, fosters community engagement, and equips individuals with the tools they need for recovery.
Help us advocate for the return of PHaMs.