A new free women’s health clinic has opened in Byron Bay, aiming to improve access to healthcare for some of the region’s most vulnerable women.
The nurse-led clinic, based at Fletcher Street Cottage, will provide trauma-informed care for women and their children experiencing hardship in the Byron Shire, operating as a weekly drop-in service.
Run through the Byron Community Centre, the clinic offers preventative health care, chronic disease management, wound care, pathology referrals and support navigating the health system, all within a safe, women-only environment.
Manager of Fletcher Street Cottage, Damian Farrell, said the service is designed to meet women where they are.
“For many women, healthcare has been something they’ve had to put last, often for years. This clinic is about meeting women where they are, with care that is respectful, trauma-informed and built on trust,” Mr Farrell said.
“Having a nurse onsite in the Women’s Space means women can take steps to look after their health without fear or judgement.”
Women experiencing or at risk of homelessness are significantly less likely to receive early diagnosis or ongoing treatment for chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory illness and mental health conditions. Older women are also among the fastest-growing groups experiencing homelessness, often in hidden forms such as couch surfing or living in cars.
The clinic is delivered by a registered nurse in partnership with One Bridge and forms part of the Byron Women program, which provides support services including meals, laundry, emergency relief and domestic violence assistance.
Program Lead and Peer Support Worker from One Bridge, Tracey Kristiansen, said the setting plays a key role in encouraging women to seek help.
“Many of the women who come to the clinic haven’t had easy access to healthcare for a long time. By being based in the Women’s Space, we’re able to offer care in a way that feels calm, familiar and respectful,” Ms Kristiansen said.
“It’s often the first step for women to talk about their health concerns, get checked and be supported into further care if they need it.”
Relationships Manager at Byron Community Centre, Bec Robinson, said embedding healthcare within an existing trusted service is critical.
“What makes this clinic so powerful is the environment. Women come here because they feel safe. Having a nurse embedded in the Women’s Space means health conversations can happen naturally, with dignity and compassion, and at a pace that feels right for each woman.”
The clinic is funded for 12 months through Healthy North Coast’s Primary Care Impact Grants Chronic Disease Prevention Program, with additional support from the Northern Rivers Community Foundation.
Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the initiative highlights the value of locally driven solutions.
“Our Primary Care Impact Grants continue to make a difference in local health on the North Coast, with over $2.3 million having been awarded through 48 successful grants to date,” Ms Wheeler said.
“This clinic is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when local expertise is backed with the resources to test, refine and scale innovative solutions that help people get better access to health care – especially our region’s most vulnerable.”
The clinic runs every Tuesday from 1pm to 3pm at Fletcher Street Cottage.
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