Culturally appropriate palliative care at the forefront for winning Fitzroy Crossing team

Our team from Fitzroy Crossing Hospital recently won the Outstanding Achievement in Palliative Care for Aboriginal Communities category in this year’s Palliative Care Awards.

The team puts the health and spiritual wellbeing of our Aboriginal community members at the centre of all they do. 

The Director of Nursing Fitzroy Crossing Candice Fitts said the team’s trademark compassion and determination, as well as their deep understanding of the needs for our Aboriginal communities is what makes them so special.

“People living in the Fitzroy Valley and wider Kimberley region have strong cultural connections, meaning palliative care here is very unique. Culturally appropriate care can look different for each of our patients,” Candice said.

“It may look like beds rolled out onto the veranda to feel the warm breeze blowing, it may be 150 family and extended family members holding hands and being with the patient as they move through their palliative care journey. Or it may be hymns sung in Walmajarri as people hold space for their loved ones.”

“Whatever their needs may be, I am proud to work with a group of people who advocate for our Aboriginal communities, continue to engage in professional development and allow our patients to remain on or return home to Country.”

After a challenging start to the year, with the Kimberley experiencing the worst floods WA has ever seen, Candice said winning the award has bolstered morale across the hospital.   

“Winning this award has been amazing for staff,” she said. 

“It’s wonderful to be recognised for the exceptional work the team undertake every day.”

“The people here are so vibrant, warm and culturally connected. Working hand-in-hand with the incredible communities of the Kimberley makes working here an absolute privilege.”