THE effects of smoking on indigenous communities will be highlighted across the region next week as Pangula Mannamurna staff continue their mission to help improve the quality of life of families in the South East.
Holding an informative session with other community organisations, service providers, clinics and agencies on Monday, the Tackling Indigenous Smoking team will aim to fill the gaps and ensure all options are available for their clients.
“We want to improve communication between different organisations and services in the region so we can best serve the community,” tobacco action event coordinator Jade Maiden said.
“We know there are many awesome services out there that can help to fill the gaps, but unfortunately we do not always have the best lines of communication.
“It also gives us a chance to put a face to an email address and really build that connection.”
Currently focusing on three target areas, children, pregnant mothers and inmates, Tackling Indigenous Smoking coordinator Danielle Ashford said they want to put a greater emphasis on children.
“It will be great to get a bit more involved with organisations that do work with children so we can work together and ensure they are aware of the effects of smoking,” she said.
Also working on strengthening their connections with smaller towns throughout the South East, the team has organised a number of focus group sessions over the next couple of months in Bordertown, Naracoorte, Kingston and Millicent.
These sessions will be aimed at community members and professionals.
“We want to make our presence known in those areas so people do not feel so isolated as Mount Gambier does have the bulk of the services,” she said.
“One of the biggest holes we are finding is our link to those towns, it is important the people there know we are there to support them and can travel to visit them.
“Quitline is not the answer for everyone and we can offer other services.”
Contact Ms Maiden on 8724 7270 or at jade.maiden@pangula.org.au to register attendance for the focus group sessions no later than January 31.
