Supporting Autumn Centre residents so they do not miss the count

The Elizabeth Hansen Patient Accommodation and Support Services (EHPASS) team recently stepped up to assist Autumn Centre residents with completing their 2026 Census forms.

Recognising that some residents faced challenges navigating the online survey, the EHPASS team arranged for paper forms to be delivered directly to the Autumn Centre.

Receptionist Jaydene Latham and Aboriginal Health Worker Tara Lockyer supported residents, ensuring they could participate and have their voices counted.

With several challenging questions in this year’s Census, the team were there to guide residents from start to finish, providing extra explanations and cultural guidance in an appropriate and culturally safe environment.  

“Aboriginal people were not included in the population counts until Census 1971,” Tara said.

“It was important for Jaydene and I to support our residents to participate in things that they would have support for at home.

As a true reflection of the team’s commitment to person-centred care and culturally respect, residents can access important community and government services while feeling fully informed and included during the process.

“Jaydene and I strive to maintain the high level of cultural safety and support for all our residents.

“It was crucial that we delivered the information and gathered informed consent in a culturally safe way to ensure the residents remain comfortable whilst they stay at EHPASS.”

Manager EHPASS Sharmain Sands highlighted the team’s everyday “compassion and advocacy” when providing practical support to residents.

“Their dedication helped residents complete this important national survey, ensuring residents were not left behind,” Sharmain said.

“WACHS continues to support Aboriginal people, on and off Country to be able to receive the high level of care and support they would have if they were still on Country.”