Keeping Kimberley kids healthy now and into the future

• Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service has received $235,985 to pilot a Kids Club program
• The community-based, early intervention and prevention program will address unhealthy behaviours
• The program aims to benefit nearly 3,000 Aboriginal children and their families living in and around Broome

Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (BRAMS) will receive more than $230,000 in Cook Government funding through Healthway to pilot the Kids Club program.

The program will address health behaviours such as unhealthy eating, lack of physical activity and poor mental and oral health in young children aged 0-16 years and is set to benefit nearly 3,000 Aboriginal children and their families living in and around Broome.

Aboriginal people make up 43 per cent of the Kimberley population with half under the age of 20 years.

BRAMS, in conjunction with the community, identified a need for a community-based, early intervention and prevention program to address poor health and social outcomes for young people, which can lead to health issue.

The pilot project will:

• facilitate culturally appropriate relationship building, engagement, and education opportunities for local Aboriginal children on improving health and wellbeing;
• develop a youth committee of young Aboriginal people who can support project co-design and provide guidance on health promoting strategies for Aboriginal youth;
• develop a 'Kids Club' that will utilise birthday incentives, prizes, and culturally appropriate mascots to motivate Aboriginal children and their families to complete annual health checks and engage in healthy lifestyles;
• deliver school holiday family activities that provide educational and participation opportunities; and
• build capacity of families through educational sessions and appropriate activities during their annual health check.

The program aims to instil lifelong habits and promote the importance of regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings.

BRAMS was successful in receiving funding through Healthway's Healthy Communities Program. For more information about the Healthy Communities Program visit www.healthway.wa.gov.au.

 Comments attributed to Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:

"BRAMS is an organisation that has been active in the region for the past 40 years to deliver positive health outcomes in and around Broome.

"The program aims to build healthier and stronger Aboriginal communities by providing Aboriginal children a health education program that is fun and engaging."

Comments attributed to Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:

"BRAMS has strong community relationships that will support the Kids Club program and oversee its success.

"The program is set to benefit nearly 3,000 Aboriginal children and their families living in and around Broome."