A recent evaluation of Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia’s Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Model of Service has highlighted positive impacts in supporting health outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities. This evaluation was undertaken by researchers Patricia Dudgeon, Rama Putu Agung-Igusti, and Emma Carlin from the School of Indigenous Studies University of WA and the University of WA, and Broome Rural
Clinical School Division.

SEWB is a holistic concept encompassing the importance of connection to land, culture, spirituality, and ancestry, forming the foundation of physical and mental health for Aboriginal Australians. The Mental Health Commission funded AHCWA to undertake a three-year pilot project to support Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services across WA. The SEWB Model of Service has embedded each site with a team encompassing seven positions with cultural and clinical expertise.

These positions include a Clinical Lead (Mental Health Clinician), a Cultural Lead (50D position), SEWB Workers (one male, one female, 50D positions), Qualified Counsellors (one male, one female), and Care Coordinators/Administration. SEWB teams develop services that are in line with AHCWA’s SEWB Model of Service, with the flexibility to adapt to local community needs.

To evaluate the early implementation phases of the pilot, the research team conducted a mixed-method study at five ACCHS sites framed by an Aboriginal Participatory Action Research lens. The study concluded that the SEWB teams across each site have made strong contributions to improving client and community wellbeing through engagement, advocacy, and culturally appropriate care. Utilising cultural and community knowledge as well as lived experience helped teams provide flexible and responsive activities and services.

Preliminary findings determined the pilot has been embedded as an essential paradigm within key policy frameworks, highlighting the importance of strengthening Aboriginal people’s SEWB by addressing social, cultural, and political determinants. This emphasis on the positive impact and ongoing work within our ACCHS endorses the SEWB Model of Service’s goal in empowering Aboriginal people to attain health equality. AHCWA remains steadfast in our commitment to promoting Community Controlled and culturally safe care.

To read more about how the study was conducted and the interim findings, click here.