Country health partnership delivering alcohol and drug education in the West Kimberley
(L-R) Anthony Edgar, KCADS West Kimberley Aboriginal Diversion Officer; Zyhannah Bin Jalil, KCADS Prevention Services Officer, Derby; Gerrick Weedon, Peer Educator/Mentor, Derby.
WA Country Health Service’s Kimberley Community Alcohol and Drug Service (KCADS) has developed an innovative partnership in the West Kimberley with Men’s Outreach Service Aboriginal Corporation (MOSAC) to deliver alcohol and drug prevention programs.
Operating as part of MOSAC’s Family Outreach Service and supported by the Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Prevention team at KCADS, a dedicated peer mentor and educator will deliver alcohol and drug-related health education and support community groups to respond to issues relating to alcohol and drug use.
The peer-led, youth partnership model is based on successful MOSAC peer education programs that have been delivered in the region for almost two decades.
WA Country Health Service Kimberley Acting Executive Director Ron Wynn said one of the keys to improving alcohol and drug prevention in the region was through strengthening partnerships.
“We know that working with our partner organisations on these initiatives is making a difference,” Mr Wynn said.
“Putting people on the ground to support communities in this way is a big part of helping people to overcome their personal challenges and achieving their own goals.”
Working as part of the ALIVE & Kicking Goals! (AKG) team at MOSAC, Peer mentor and Educator Gerrick Weedon will also support the social and emotional wellbeing of young people through one-on-one mentoring and group workshops.
AKG Youth Suicide Prevention Program Team Leader Kevin McKenzie said the role has a strong community focus.
“We are thrilled about our new partnership.
“It’s so important that we work together to boost services, awareness and support around alcohol and drug use and social and emotional wellbeing for people in Derby and the surrounding communities.”