b'Connecting through culture Recovery through Over the last year, our alcohol and other drugsconnection(AOD) team revamped our substance useWhen it comes to support, socialising is key. As treatment program for Aboriginal men in Portconnecting with others is an essential part of Phillip Prison.our alcohol and other drugs (AOD) rehabilitation Guided by UnitingsAboriginal Consultant in ourprograms, COVID-19 restrictions meant innovative AOD services, the new program was made withinadjustments to our in-person program.a trauma-informed and culturally safe framework.Throughout the pandemic, our AOD therapeutic There was less writing and more storytelling,day rehabilitation programs were delivered helping these men make connections in ways thatonline. Every participant received a workbook felt right for them. and art therapy pack via mail to support their Sharing their culture in a safe environment,online group sessions. participants felt seen, heard, and supported. For motivation, we had extra video content and Ive done lots of programs before, but this was mybreak-out rooms. Small-group socialising was built first Koori-specific one, shared one participant. into the timetable, creating a space for people to I was comfortable, and I could see you guysdevelop personal connections. Participants shared [Uniting facilitators] being honest and respectful. their lunchtimes and enjoyed activities, such as trivia quizzes and home scavenger hunts. Support to discoverWe supported physical wellbeing with weekly yoga and exercise classes. There was also nutritional their story support, including supermarket vouchers and Our Adoption and Information Serviceonline cooking classes.(previously under Unitings Adoption andUnexpected benefits came from the new medium. Permanent Care team in Dandenong) is nowWith online access, we could reach more people part of the Heritage Service. This change meansin more places than ever before, and people who providing more information to those affected byfelt uncomfortable working face-to-face felt safer adoption - allowing people greater access to theirabout engaging. personal history.Encouraged by these silver linings, our online Now, our team can provide records, informationservice will now be embedded into Unitings and support to people affected by adoption, asservice delivery model.well as past residents and their families. Those seeking records can be given information about the Homes where they spent the first weeks of their lives, stories from mothercraft nurses who worked there, and ongoing support as they discover their past.Uniting Vic.Tas Annual Report 2020-2021 23'