Workshops strengthen regional public health workforce

Kerry Copley CQI coordinator from AMSANT along with William Costigan Public Health West Arnhem, Vicki Chamberlain CQI and Linda Bunn Aboriginal Health workforce co-ordinator from the NT Department of Health, Primary Health care branch facilitated a one day workshop for Aboriginal staff from Warruwi, Minjilang, Gunbalanya, Jabiru and the Red Lily public health team (pictured above).  
Aboriginal health practitioners, AOD workers, community workers and other local workforce participated in training and discussions around a public health approach to mental health and well-being within a CQI framework. These workshops have been an annual event for the past 4 years and feedback from participants shows how valuable and appreciated they have been. 
The aim of the workshops has been to build confidence and skills around planning, effective community engagement, identifying and addressing gaps to service delivery and to strengthen the regional public health workforce. 
It was exciting to have so many young and upcoming members of the local public health workforce so engaged and willing to share local success stories and future initiatives. Having the experience of the more mature workforce present, added invaluable depth to the discussions. 
This couldn't have happened without continued commitment from the local workforce and the support from the health centre managers and district managers over the past four years.  
A great day was enjoyed by all.