GRAMS set to receive almost $2 million in State Govt funding to bolster child development, paediatric care

Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service is set to receive almost $2 million in State Government funding to further bolster child development, access to services and paediatric care in the Mid West.

GRAMS chief executive Deborah Woods said the $1.95m grant would go a long way in tackling childhood development in the Mid West.

With the funding, GRAMS will provide development services to children up to 18 years old in the Geraldton region through an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service delivery model, which is both “culturally responsive” and “evidence-informed”.

The grant will also boost paediatric health care, including clinical, allied and family support tailored to the individual needs of the child and family.

“The funds will assist and strengthen GRAMS’ ability to provided targeted and holistic services to children in our catchment,” Ms Woods said.

“It will be a powerful collaboration which will benefit our children most, both in the short term and long term.”

Child development services will also be supported for the next two years through the grant, as an alternative option for Aboriginal children and families needing the services, along with eased pressure on the CDS waitlist.

Health Minister Meredith Hammat said the agreement was designed to improve access to “high-quality child development services”.

She said it was imperative to help Aboriginal children and families receive co-ordinated care closer to home and within their communities.

“Every child deserves access to quality health care and developmental support, no matter where they live,” Ms Hammat said.

“We are committed to improving Aboriginal health outcomes, and by working closely with local organisations we can ensure services are more easily accessible and community focused, providing the care families need, when they need it.”