Program recognised for indigenous care

Germanus Kent House has been recognised for its outstanding delivery of pastoral care to Aboriginal people at a prestigious State awards ceremony.

The Aged and Community Services WA Excellence in Care Awards were held at the Crown Entertainment Complex in Perth on June 5.

The awards celebrate the aged and community care sector in WA and recognise those who contribute to maintaining the quality of life of older residents, people with disabilities and their carers.

GKH took out the Innovation and Best Practice award for its pastoral care in an indigenous context program Galiya Mabudyan, meaning "life is good".

Galiya Mabudyan comprises three key elements: fortnightly pastoral and palliative reviews, a program of activities designed to promote the creation of shared memories and a sense of collective identity, and buru (country), which aims to provide participants with a tactile experience of nature.

GKH facility manager Andy McGaw said staff had been encouraged to enter the program in the awards after receiving great feedback at an ACSWA conference.

Galiya Mabudyan was designed to meet the requirements of Aboriginal clients based on their physical, emotional and spiritual needs, and help address the lack of focus on Aboriginal people in aged care.

Mr McGaw said the challenge for staff was to develop an initiative that catered to the diversity of the Aboriginal residents, who are broadly defined as saltwater, freshwater or desert people.

Through the program, Mr McGaw said GKH had found a way to help residents feel connected to their culture and country.

"What we've learnt off our Aboriginal clients and through trial and error, we're actually finding there's an evidence base that supports it and it actually works," he said.

"Our programs are getting higher satisfaction ratings and greater participation and there's a stronger feel that comes through."

Mr McGaw said GKH had also worked closely with the Bidyadanga community, with both groups making trips to see each other and share in meals and activities.

He said the award was a fantastic recognition of the outstanding work and dedication of GKH staff.