Published on Tuesday, 29 October 2024 at 1:00:35 PM
This morning the Wunan Foundation, accompanied by the Hon. Divina D’Anna, representing the Minister for Health and Mental Health, proudly unveiled the new Kimberley Withdrawal and Intervention Centre (KWIC) to members of the East Kimberley community. The Wunan team was represented by Chief Executive Officer Prue Jenkins, Executive Chairperson Ian Trust, and Clinical Director Dr. Stephanie Trust from Wunan Health.
KWIC is set to become the first Aboriginal community-controlled low medical withdrawal service in Western Australia, marking a groundbreaking development for healthcare services in the region. The initiative aims to provide the local Kimberley community with a safe, culturally appropriate environment for individuals seeking to withdraw from alcohol and other drugs, allowing them to stabilise before receiving further treatment.
Wunan Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Prue Jenkins had this to say, “Today marks a significant milestone for the Wunan Foundation and the East Kimberley community. The Kimberley Withdrawal and Intervention Centre promises to be a vital resource for those working to overcome addiction challenges, offering a compassionate and culturally sensitive environment for those in need. We’re incredibly excited to see the impact that the KWIC team will have.”
In addition to withdrawal support, the six-bedroom facility will offer treatment options for individuals experiencing co-occurring mental health issues.
Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson emphasised the importance of engaging Wunan to deliver this vital service, stating, “A safe, culturally appropriate and secure place to receive treatment is vital to support people's recovery from issues with alcohol and other drugs, and their mental health.”
The Wunan Foundation is dedicated to empowering the East Kimberley community and is proud to extend this critical support service to individuals facing challenges related to substance abuse and mental health.
Wunan also acknowledges the WA Mental Health Commission for funding KWIC’s operational costs, along with Job Pathways, the Minderoo Foundation, and Lotterywest for their generous contributions towards the clinic’s construction.
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