Webinars
LGBTIQA+ Resources
Inclusive communication with LGBTIQ+ clients
Drawing on a rapid review of the evidence, this guide outlines why inclusive communication matters and what works to ensure inclusive communication and supports practitioners to use this evidence in their decision making when working.
The social and emotional wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ young people
This webinar helps practitioners adopt an inclusive approach to young people with diverse sexuality, gender or variations of sex characteristics. It discusses findings from an extensive survey on the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ young people, shares first-hand stories and practice considerations.
Working with gender diverse young people and their families
This webinar introduces ideas of gender and identity formation and discusses the struggles that individuals, families and services face in responding to the changing landscape in this area. It provides an opportunity to explore some of the essential information and skills needed for practitioners to deepen their understanding of gender, and work in an inclusive and affirmative manner.
Multicultural resources
- Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre | Queensland Health QTMHC is a statewide service which provides information, referrals, resources and clinical consultation including access to bi-cultural workers Ph: 07 3317 1234.
- Multicultural Connect Line has support and information to find aid, assistance, and mental health services in your language Ph: 1300 079 020 (Mon-Fri 0900-1630hrs).
- World Wellness Group (WWG) provide bulkbilling health services including mental health prevention and treatment programs that promote health and wellbeing. Ph: 07 3333 2100.
- Refugee Health Network QLD is a single point of call for assistance with identifying appropriate primary health providers for refugee health needs including assessments and ongoing care for people from a refugee background. Ph: 07 3864 7580; E: refugeehealth@bsphn.org.au
- The Queensland Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma (QPASTT) – provides free, flexible, and culturally sensitive services to promote the health and wellbeing of people who have been tortured or who have suffered refugee related trauma prior to migrating to Australia. free and confidential Ph 07 3391 6677.
- Multicultural Australia provides settlement and support services for refugees, and newly arrived humanitarian aid entrants.
- AMPARO provides independent individual and systemic advocacy on behalf of vulnerable people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds with disability Ph: 07 3354 4900.
- Access to Health Care in Australia – YouTube The Access to Health Care in Australia videos provide information (available in 19 different languages) on the Australian health care system for newly arrived community members including information about accessing a GP, the role of health care interpreters, and emergency care. (Please note this is a NSW Health video and the phone number at 3 minutes 40 seconds for refugee health is different for the Qld RHN 07 3864 7580).
- Free Interpreting Service delivered through TIS National to provide Medicare relatable services to anyone in Australia who is eligible for Medicare including access to Private medical practitioners and pharmacies Ph: 131 450 (24/7)
(From Insight QLD’s newsletter)
Podcasts
Strengths based Practice
NADA have compiled some resources to enhance strengths-based parctice.
“Strengths can be physical, emotional, social and psychological. They may not be apparent to the person accessing your service at first, but simply seeking support is considered a strength. Working from a strengths-based perspective means identifying positives within individuals and working on building their support network and connections in their environment.
Strengths and trauma-informed care
A strengths-based approach is a crucial part of trauma-informed care because it ensures the focus isn’t only on a person’s history of traumatic experiences and their impacts. Instead, it steers the worker to look at a person’s strengths and growth. It empowers people as experts in their own lives. Strengths range from personal values and personal characteristics to positive relationships.
Download this resource [PDF] to learn more about trauma-informed care and strengths-based practice.
Watch a panel discussion on the importance of trauma-informed care and the difference it can make to people accessing AOD services.
Applying a strengths-based approach in practice
Ask questions [PDF] to reveal and reinforce the strengths of people engaging in your service, for example:
- Be goal oriented: ‘What is one thing you would like to work towards while you are here?’
- Assess the strengths: ‘What did it take to get you here today?’
- Make links to resources: ‘Are there people or activities that you have connected with before?’
- Apply the right methods: ‘Let’s focus on your story of courage—how can we grow that?’
- Emphasise positive relationships: ‘Did you know there is a great neighbourhood centre that does some cultural programs you might be interested in—shall we give them a call?’
- Provide opportunities for meaningful choice: ‘Are you aware there are a couple of different kinds of programs we offer—can I take you through them and we can explore what might suit your situation best.’
Practice information
- Watch for a quick summary video of strengths based processes and key elements.
- Watch for a detailed introduction to strengths-based practice.
- Refer to this strengths-based practice framework and handbook [PDF].
Strengths based tips and resources
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives
‘Aboriginal people are incredibly resilient! And strength-based approaches builds upon this. By using clients’ strengths in AOD work, you take away the shame. Strengths-based approaches also encourage high levels of self-esteem—clients see achievements quickly and then reach their goals.’ Lee Lawrence, Nana Muru Project, Lives Lived Well
Yarning tools: These excellent Aboriginal tools were developed by the Remote Alcohol and Other Drugs Workforce Program in collaboration with Menzies School of Health Research’s Aboriginal and Islander Mental Health Initiative.
Mental health tips
Words can affect a person’s sense of self and make them feel included or excluded. They can convey hope and optimism or a sense of pessimism and low expectations. When talking or writing about mental health, think about the language you use. Refer to the Recovery oriented language guide for more details.
Building on personal strengths: Check out these stories on the Flourish website that explore how people have connected with their strengths such as music, art, community groups and support networks.
Other resources
Advocate: Strengths-based [PDF]
TEDx talk: A brilliant exploration on what it is to look at strengths, rather than deficits.”
(Email from NADA, 2023)
Online resources
NEW E-learning modules from Insight QLD
Working with diverse populations
Check out the full catalogue here
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