Strengthening Social, Emotional and Spiritual Wellbeing of families and children: Promising findings from the Community Wellbeing Program in Bairnsdale area (Victoria)

Abstract

Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) families and children are resilient and thriving with a strong cultural and community connection and positive identity. However, the impact of historical and ongoing dispossession, marginalisation, racism, poverty and the stolen generations have led to high levels of aversive consequences including unresolved trauma, depression and grief. This can impact on families own social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing (SEWB) and that of their children. The Community Wellbeing Program is a collaborative community development project that aims to strengthen SEWB of children aged 3-12 years in five participating primary schools and early childhood serv..