Debbie Haynes
Culturally Responsive Care in NSW Out-of-Home-Care: An Evaluation of the “Walking in Blak Traks” training
Abstract
Introduction
Children in the out-of-home-care (OOHC) system face an increased risk of mental health distress, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children exceptionally vulnerable and marginalised. Clinical services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in New South Wales OOHC are grounded in evidence gathered within western, colonial constructs of knowledge. Consequently, these approaches often fail to be applicable to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, often causing harm and not addressing cultural needs.
Research by Haynes et al., demonstrated positive outcomes for Aboriginal children in NSW OOHC, following the team of clinicians, integrating the SEWB framework into therapeutic approaches. Consequently, the directorate of Psychological and Specialist Services (P&SS) actioned strategic reform to decolonise existing protocols, commissioning Aboriginal researchers to lead the development, execution and evaluation of specialised training, focusing on embedding the SEWB framework into clinical services for P&SS staff statewide.
Methods
The study participants include 80 staff members from NSW Department of Communities and Justice P&SS who have completed the training. Additionally, a control group comprising clinicians from private organisations will be included for comparative analysis.
The methodology employed in this study adopts a mixed-methods design, guided by Indigenous Standpoint Theory, the cultural interface and Aboriginal participatory action research principles.
Quantitative data will be collected over 12 months at four time points. ANOVAS will be employed to examine effects on clinician implicit bias, cultural responsiveness and self-efficacy. Cultural responsiveness and clinical self-efficacy will be measured as predictors of implementing the SEWB model into clinical practice.
Qualitative data will be collected through interviews and focus groups which will utilise a yarning method. Data will be collected with participants at 6 and 12 month intervals. Thematic mapping will be utilised to visualise patterns amongst data and inform an iterative process of theme development.
Conclusion
The research contributes to the continuous efforts to reform clinical practices that emphasise enhancing SEWB outcomes through prioritising connection to culture. Through integrating the SEWB, clinicians can improve the quality of care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in NSW OOHC. Outcomes will offer insights and propose best practices to inform future clinical protocols.
Supervisors
School
Melbourne School of Population & Global Health