Cumberland Hospital celebrates our Indigenous past, present and future

An event at Cumberland Hospital today emphasised the importance of improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people in western Sydney.

More than 40 people attended the event on the grounds of the hospital which included a flag raising ceremony which also marked NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Aboriginal health strategy director Braiden Abala said today’s event was a demonstration of WSLHD’s commitment to improving the quality and safety of health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“We’re also working towards creating a more welcoming and engaging environment in our health services for this important community group,” Braiden said.

“Today’s event is an example of our commitment to working with our local communities.”

WSLHD mental health executive director Beth Kotze said that the district is working with the community to ensure mental health services are culturally appropriate.

“Mental health support plays a big role in improving the lives of Indigenous Australians,” Beth said.

“I encourage our local Aboriginal community members to reach out and seek support whenever they need it.”

If you, or someone you know someone is struggling, there is help available:

** Mental Health Hotline (Open 24 Hours) – 1800 011 511

** Doctors Health Advisory Unit Helpline (NSW) – 02 9437 6552

** Lifeline – 13 11 14

** Beyond Blue – 1300 22 46 36

** Men’s Help – 1300 78 99 78

** JMO Support Line – 1300 566 321

Upcoming NAIDOC events at Western Sydney Local Health District:

Mount Druitt Hospital
Monday 8 July, 11.30am–2pm Performance and flag raising at the main entrance
Lunch will be held in the Aboriginal Health Conference Room, Copperfield Building
RSVP: Eileen.Louise@health.nsw.gov.au or 02 9881 1670

Blacktown Showground
Tuesday 9 July, 11am–4pm
NAIDOC family day – live entertainment, free BBQ and kids activities

Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre
Thursday 11 July, 10am – 2pm
Live entertainment, food and family activities

Westmead, Cumberland and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead
Friday 19 July (more details to come)
Walk along the Parramatta River through Cumberland Hospital, and a tour and Aboriginal history talk about the role of the Female Factory.

For more information on NAIDOC Week click here