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Our vision for reconciliation
To be culturally responsible and committed to social justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. We will be unified, positive and healthy. The Wesley Hospital is a vital expression of the reconciliation mission of UnitingCare in our desire to reach out to people in need, provide compassionate care and speak out for fairness and justice.
As part of the UnitingCare family, our reconciliation journey is guided by the core values of:
Self-determination and Cultural Governance
It is essential for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to decide how best to build a future that is representative of their community needs. Governance systems that include representation from First Nations peoples and respect cultural protocols will be better equipped to co-create strategy which supports self-determined decision making more broadly across the organisation.
Respect and Relationships
Respect sits at the core of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of this nation is the beginning step in establishing respectful relationships. Being purposeful in our efforts to build relationships of trust and collaboration will enable cultural perspectives to improve community engagement outcomes.
Equality and
Equity
Equality of outcome for First Nations peoples will be improved through adapting normal business practices to build equity in social participation. Being ready to think creatively and respond accordingly to the needs of those we hope to serve is the foundation of quality allyship in reconciliation.
Connection to Country and Wellbeing
Country is the source of healing and spiritual connection for First Nations peoples. Being deliberate in caring for Country will enrich wellbeing for all peoples. We will strengthen opportunities for culture to inform environmental and personal wellbeing for all we serve.
Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
At The Wesley Hospital, we:
- Provide an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Support Service, which consists of First Nations staff who are available to support the cultural and emotional wellbeing of patients and their families while in hospital.
- Build relationships with Indigenous Advisors, who provide cultural advice and connection to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Ensure an Acknowledgement of Country takes place at informal and small events such as meetings. At larger events, such as the opening of a new hospital or service, Traditional Custodians are engaged to facilitate a Welcome to Country.
- Hold events during National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week to deepen cultural understanding amongst staff and strengthen relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Actively promote the importance of all staff participation in face-to-face cultural appreciation workshops and completion of our e-learning training modules.
- Encourage all staff to be curious about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and engage with our Reconciliation Action Plan committee to broaden their understanding of our reconciliation journey.
Life in all its fullness artwork
In 2020, South Sea Islander and Butchulla artist and designer Tarni O’Shea was commissioned to create an artwork (pictured above) to celebrate the launch of UnitingCare’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
UnitingCare’s reconciliation story is embedded on a foundation layer acknowledging more than 65,000 years of culture that have guided us here today. The central element represents rejuvenation of the land through fire, constructive conversations, and creating an environment of learning and healing. It evolves to reinvigorate the environment, just as UnitingCare adapts to support and guide people through personalised care. This only happens when equality, respect, compassion and self-determination are present. Nurturing the growth of this environment are UnitingCare business functions. These represent the vital role UnitingCare and all parts of the organisation play in sustaining the vitality of the environment. Every element contributes to the health of the environment, helping to share knowledge and build relationships.
Freshwater and saltwater flows around this, connecting UnitingCare to people far and wide. Throughout, the centre is radiant and flourishing, representing the growth and opportunities that come with being connected and empowered. When all these elements work together, a nurtured spirit ignites and thrives. With ongoing care, the environment grows stronger, empowering UnitingCare to let its spirit soar.