This year’s theme was ‘Ubuntu: I Am Because We Are - strengthening social solidarity and global connectedness'.
ERH social worker and Strengthening Hospital’s Response to Family Violence lead Chelsea Nevin said the day was a chance to showcase what the hospital had to offer from the social work team.
“It’s such a diverse range of services we provide at the hospital and in the community,” Ms Nevin said.
“We ensure there’s connections within the community, role modelling and providing engagement and support service for emotional wellbeing, in particular parenting and providing support for your young people.”
Their work includes family services, counselling and support services for drug and alcohol and family violence.
ERH Aboriginal Liaison Officer Sonya Briggs-Parsons supports the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community when they come to hospital.
“I attend the medical consultations and explain to community what is happening,” she said.
“I teach staff about Aboriginal culture and past history, and teach them about the importance of learning how to engage with community.
“It gives community a sense they’re in control of their steps moving forward and their family are part of that too.”
After a morning tea in the café at ERH, a drumming class and meditation session was on offer to staff to experience a small taste of what the social work team offer.
Belinda Cantwell, from family services, said the drumbeat program benefitted people of all ages Australia-wide.
“The research is it’s about rhythms in our life that regulate us,” Ms Cantwell said.
“It’s a great thing because not everyone likes sitting on a chair and talking.
“We go through what your expectations are, how we can link into community and then finding out your own rhythm in life and what works with you.
“We run a 10-week program for the community as well as staff wellbeing days where people come in and smash on a drum.
“Once you get a rhythm going, 10 minutes on a drum is therapeutic.”
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