Palm Island groups, growing to meet the needs of the community

As Palm Island’s only community mental health service, selectability is working with locals to ensure that the groups on offer are catering to their interests and needs.

selectability has introduced a range of new group programs led by Regional Coordinator Bradley Baker and his team of Lifestyle Support Workers, all aimed at increasing social connection and improving the mental wellbeing of those attending.

Bradley said the team was finding larger facilitated group activities, held in a range of different locations on the island were popular.

“The groups we have been able to roll out recently have been on a much larger scale and they have proven to be very successful,” said Bradley.

“Larger groups allow consumers to engage with more people and we can set up more special interest activities – which increases their social connections and self-confidence.”

While group programs have been on offer some time, Bradley said that since starting as Regional Coordinator earlier this year he has been working with consumers to review the programs.

“It was important that we asked our consumers about what was on offer, it enabled us to receive valuable feedback that groups were being duplicated frequently.

“We have been able plan to provide a new range of group programs to offer more variety to consumers.”

An important part of selectability's group programs is the emphasis on self-determination and the ability to develop strong connections to culture, spirituality, land and ancestry.

Among the new groups already on offer, Bradley said the team was developing more culturally appropriate groups including fishing, cooking on country and yarning circles.

“There have been some challenges, but we are looking at adding the group programs on a more permanent basis in the coming months.

“I believe it is very important for connection to both land and country.”

Recently selectability Palm Island has also held two community BBQs.

The first, a singing afternoon held at selectability’s Mental Health Hub (49a Beach Road) saw community members gather to enjoy lunch, sing and yarn while enjoy each other’s company.

“The group involved consumers helping with lunch preparation and cooking, while some community members volunteered to sing songs for consumers.

“Consumers who attended were able to join in with clap sticks and singing.”

And the second barbecue took place recently at the Obe Geia Challenge held on Friday 9 September.

“Staff and consumers worked together to provide a free sausage sizzle lunch, fruit and water to those that attended and participated in the challenge.

“It was definitely well received, and it was a great to see the community collaboration with selectability teaming up with the NQ Cowboys and the Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council,” said Bradley.

Established in 2015 selectability (Palm Island’s only community managed mental health organisation) has become part of the fabric of the Palm Island community committed to provided culturally safe services to improve the mental wellbeing of locals.

Services at the Palm Island Mental Health Hub include NDIS individual and group programs, clinical services (via telehealth) and carer supports.

You can find out more information about our services on Palm Island HERE