Refugee trauma, the stress of resettlement and uncertainty can cause great stress, pain and fear and negatively impact on people’s health and everyday functioning. But with timely support, people can begin to heal and live well.
NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors is a leader in healing for people beginning their lives in Western Sydney.
The WentWest team were privileged to hear a showcase of the healing work being undertaken at STARTTS from young people to the elderly.
The presentations were heartwarming and inspiring and each demonstrated the power of connection, culture and human compassion.
STARTTS Ukrainian Project Officer/Groupworker, Natalia, said the tango lessons are supported by the community development and clinical teams and includes nine dance lessons, psychoeducation each session, social connections.
“It has the added benefit of improved body awareness, balance, and coordination and provides a safe space for self-expression, communication and mindfulness through the nature of tango.”
Other programs featured included:
- Youth After-School Program at Blacktown Youth Centre: Offering a range of sporting and creative activities, the after-school youth programs are held in various locations and engage young people in positive, structured after-school experiences that contribute to their well being.
- Keeping in Contact (KIC) Program for Seniors: A program focused on fostering social connection among seniors. Participants share powerful stories of how they stay in touch and support one another, highlighting the importance of social engagement for older adults.
- Consultation Program for Sudanese Youth and Parents: This insightful program addresses the unique challenges of parenting in a new country, helping bridge generational and cultural differences and fostering understanding between Sudanese youth and their parents.
- LGBTQI+ Walk on Walk Strong: An award-winning initiative that recognises the diversity of sexualities and identities within the community. This peer-led support group has developed valuable resources aimed at improving health service experiences for LGBTQI+ individuals in Western Sydney.
Programs and Priorities
As the Western Sydney Primary Health Network, one of our core priorities is population health, including ensuring the refugee community have access to health care. Further information about the work we both commission and support, is available on our Population Health webpage.
HealthPathways for Refugee and Migrant Health
Did you know there are pathways available to assist health professionals with Refugee and Migrant Health?
- Refugee Health Assessment – Adult
- Refugee Health Assessment – Children and Adolescents
- Migrant and Refugee Health Services
If you have trouble logging in to HealthPathways, please contact our team at healthpathways@wentwest.com.au
Information is correct as of 20 February 2025