The Parish’s Ni-Vanuatu PALM workers are continuing their formal training at the John Henry Institute (JHI) and recently unpacked the concept of cultural safety, inclusion and belonging as part of their learning in CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people, a core unit in Certificate III in Individual Support.

Under the guidance of JHI Manager, Natasha Murphy, the students participated in a journey and concept map of what cultural safety means to them and how they can be supported whilst they are living and working in Australia. We reflected upon stories, images, colours and cultural protocols from Vanuatu. Each student painted a canvas to represent something that was culturally significant to them. The canvases were then arranged to tell a story of Vanuatu (see photo).

The students reflected and agreed that thinking of home, customs and culture keeps them strong in their identity and spirit. From there, they broadened their discussions to include the importance of supporting the cultural safety of the residents they care for and the need for belonging and inclusion in aged care services.

Reflecting on the importance of cultural safety and belonging for residents, one student, Tina, commented, “This is their home, we need to help them feel safe and know they are cared for and belong.”

The Ni-Vanuatu PALM team works and learns in at Emmaus and St Agnes’ Site residential care homes four days a week and continue their study towards attaining their Certificate III in Individual Support each Friday in the Parish Hall.