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Hear our voices: community consultations for the development of an empowerment, healing and leadership program for Aboriginal people living in the Kimberley, Western Australia: final research report

by Dudgeon P, Cox K, D’Anna D, Dunkley C, Hams K, Kelly K, Scrine C, Walker R

Abstract

This report details the methodology and findings of a research project that was undertaken in response to the high number of suicides in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. The primary aim of the project was to develop an Aboriginal-led empowerment, healing, and leadership program that would appropriately meet the needs of the local community members. Community consultations were held to seek feedback from members on the development of such a program. Knowledge was also gained through a literature review and an examination of similar programs. The findings demonstrated an apparent need to support people to change their lives, with participants speaking of the need to initially focus on strengthening the individual and rebuilding family. Participants also spoke of the urgent need to focus on young people. The findings also demonstrated that the efficacy of a program was largely dependent on the program being culturally-based and the inclusion of traditional elements.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

Links

• View report: Hear our voices: community consultations for the development of an empowerment, healing and leadership program for Aboriginal people living in the Kimberley, Western Australia: final research report (PDF - 23.0 MB)
• View information: Hear our voices: community consultations for the development of an empowerment, healing and leadership program for Aboriginal people living in the Kimberley, Western Australia: final research report
• View website: Telethon Institute for Child Health Research: Aboriginal Health