Synopsis
The NAIDOC Week Grand Round will highlight how Wadja Aboriginal Family Place has provided excellence and leadership in health services to Aboriginal Children and their families at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Wadja works collaboratively in partnership in the areas of child health assessments, advocacy, liaison, research, mental health, education, and family support to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal children and young people.
The Wadja model of care for Aboriginal children was established 12 years ago in 2009 with the generous support of the RCH Foundation. In 2013, the RCH Executive signed a Statement of Intent to “Close the Gap” on Aboriginal health inequality, which recognises the ongoing commitment to improve the lives of Indigenous Australians and provide a better future for Indigenous children.
This presentation aims to improve RCH staff understanding of work undertaken by the Wadja team and the support we need from you to meet our objectives to improve identification, provide a safe place for Aboriginal patients and their families and continue to achieve excellent clinical and social outcomes.
Speakers
Selena White is an Iman woman from Central Queensland and Manager of the Wadja Aboriginal Family Place. For over 15 years Selena White has provided RCH Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families with cultural support, and safety throughout clinic and ward consultations. She has made significant contributions to research on Indigenous mental health and cultural practices as a member of the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute Aboriginal Reference Group, and providing strategic guidance and cultural advice to the MCRI leadership team.
Annette (Netty) Gaulton is a proud Kooma woman from southwest Queensland and Wadja Aboriginal Family Place Case Manager. In her role at RCH, Netty has provided excellence and leadership in health services to Aboriginal children and their families. She contributes to child health advocacy, liaison, research, mental health, education, and family support to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal children and young people in Australia.