Beaudesert Hospital has strengthened its commitment to culturally appropriate care by unveiling of a new Gathering Circle.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Hospital Liaison Officer Dave Bestmann led the project in consultation with Mununjali Clan Elders, Aunty Gerry Page and Aunty Janis Page.
He said the integration of traditional healing places into modern healthcare settings was imperative for improving the health of his community and without it, ill-health would persist.
“Hospitals must take responsibility to enable the important connections Indigenous peoples have with their land, waters and skies, to compliment the therapeutic healing that must co-exist with modern medicine,” he said.
“Our Gathering Circle offers a safe and inviting environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to use as a sanctuary to sit when they're on their traditional lands and to reflect on their hospital visit.
It will play a vital role and fill a familiar space when one feels so far from home.”
Facility Manager Margaret Wendt said the space would be open to all and would foster a safe, non-judgemental and connected environment.
“We are currently working with our First Nations workforce on ways our patients, staff and visitors can access the Gathering Circle in a culturally respectful way,” she said.
“We anticipate the space being used for both end-of-life care and Welcome Baby to Country ceremonies and accordingly, we are creating an appropriate cultural care plan.
A big thank you to Beaudesert Hospital for creating a healthcare environment that is safe and inclusive of all.
