About
We provide culturally secure, community-based healing services that utilise a trauma-informed approach to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people, and adults.
The name “Yorgum” is a Noongar name for a large red flowering gum tree which has healing properties. Aboriginal people have used the gum for many years in the treatment of numerous ailments, including diseases of the eyes.
The name is an expression of the life-sustaining image of the living tree. The deep roots, rising sap, branches reaching to the sky, the shelter given and the home provided to the many forms of life-insects, reptiles, birds and other animals. It is a symbol of connectedness and inter-dependence in the diversity of living beings.
Yorgum was established in 1991 by a group of Aboriginal women, some of whom worked in women’s refuges, who were concerned about the lack of appropriate counselling support for Aboriginal people experiencing spiritual, emotional and psychological pain. They founded a service with a ‘healing’ approach rather than an ongoing, crisis-driven ‘patch-up’ approach.
Over the years Yorgum has grown in size and scope of its services, to become a well-respected Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation.
YORGUM THROUGH THE YEARS
See how a powerful idea has grown over 30 years.
Vision
Aboriginal people, their families and communities have the skills and supports to improve and maintain strong social, cultural and emotional wellbeing.
The social challenges faced by Aboriginal communities are complex and interwoven. We understand the significant inter-generational trauma that Aboriginal people have experienced arising from colonial history and adverse policies that have eroded their cultural identity, spirituality, kinship, knowledge, practices and cultural connections. Many Aboriginal Australians continue to be traumatised by racism, incarceration, identity issues, exploitation and abuse.
The effects of trauma experienced by many Aboriginal people impact on their social and emotional well-being (SEWB) in areas such as their health, relationships, education, lifestyle, finances, livelihood, involvement with the justice system and identity. Aboriginal concepts of SEWB also highlight the importance of country, language, culture, spirituality and ancestors.
Purpose
Provide a range of culturally secure, community-based healing services through an Aboriginal Family Worldview to support Strong Spirit, Strong Families, Strong Communities and Strong Culture.
Yorgum provides all Aboriginal people and their families autonomous, community-based healing, counselling, support and advocacy services that are culturally secure, trauma-informed and work within an Aboriginal Family Worldview.
We support Aboriginal people to rebuild connections that have been ruptured within their lives, with a view to enhancing their SEWB. We strive to offer a holistic service that supports the whole person in the context of their family and community.
Values
Our Mob First
Aboriginal people, families and communities are our priority – led by and delivered for Aboriginal people to help our mob heal.
Aboriginal Culture
We value Aboriginal culture, practices and protocols – this knowledge helps us deliver trauma informed and healing in everything we do.
Safety
We seek to provide a safe and welcoming space that nurtures healing, trust, and resilience in the lives of our clients and staff.
Respect
We listen closely to our staff and community to make sure their voice is heard – prioritising the dignity and value of their rights and needs.
Integrity
We are transparent, reliable and honest in everything we do. Our team delivers the highest quality of services, and we act as a strong and secure Aboriginal-led organisation.
Our Strategic Themes
Healing Services
System Reform
Strong Relationships
Sustainable Organisation
Our Partners
To deliver culturally secure, trauma-informed services that address the underlying drivers of social challenges for Aboriginal people.
