Karlene Willcocks, Executive Director

Did you know that Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world?

We come from more than 200 countries and speak 300 languages, as well as more than 100 Australian indigenous languages.

Welcome to Harmony Day, which is about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for people, regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality, age or socioeconomic status.

As healthcare workers, each day we unite to treat patients from all walks of life.

We ensure all people have access to the right care, at the right time and in the right place, to ensure they have the best possible health and wellbeing.

We are committed to ensure that our patients, families, carers and communities from culturally and linguistically diverse, refugee and asylum seeking backgrounds are provided with culturally safe, respectful and equitable services.

We must also speak up against behaviours that do not align with our values and support our colleagues, family and friends to do the same.

For me, this is dear to my heart as many of you know I am from New Zealand, which may not seem that far or that different. However, it has been a noticeable difference throughout my journey.

I have been lucky to have people around me who welcomed me in and acknowledged those differences with kindness and compassion to help me assimilate and feel included and welcomed.

So, for people who come from so many much further and different cultures I can imagine how important this is.

I encourage you to celebrate the diversity across CKW, where everyone belongs. Here are a few suggestions on how to celebrate:

• Decorate your work area
• Share photos of your home and places you have visited around the world
• Join the Language Badge program

The Metro North Multicultural Health QHEPS page has great information and another page with great resources that you can print and brighten up your work area.

I also encourage you to download the CALD Assist app which can support staff to ask patients simple questions in low risk clinical situations. It is available in the Google play store and Apple app store.

On Harmony Day, I encourage you to celebrate and embrace the rich diversity at CKW and throughout the Metro North community.  It is a great opportunity to learn and show kindness.

Regards,

Karlene.