Reconciliation is a journey that requires commitment, empathy, and action. For organisations like UCWB, developing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a vital step towards supporting and fostering meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
What is a Reconciliation Action Plan?
A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a strategic document that outlines an organisation’s commitment to promoting reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community. RAPs are developed in partnership with ‘Reconciliation Australia’ and provide a structured approach to advance respectful relationships and create opportunities for First Nations peoples.
Why is a RAP so important to our organisation?
At UCWB, our mission is to support wellbeing, strengthen communities, and empower individuals – values that align deeply with the principles of reconciliation.
A Reconciliation Action Plan is important to us because:
- We serve diverse communities: Many of the individuals and families we support include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A RAP ensures our services are culturally safe, inclusive, and responsive.
- We are committed to social justice: Our organisation has a long-standing commitment to fairness, equity, and human rights. A RAP formalises and deepens this commitment in a way that honours First Nations peoples.
- We value learning and growth: Implementing a RAP fosters opportunities for staff to expand their cultural competency and engage with Australia’s true history and shared future.
- We aim to be leaders in our sector: By embedding reconciliation in everything we do, from recruitment to community engagement, we set a standard for others to follow.
UCWB commissioned a unique artwork for our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
UCWB commissioned artwork from emerging artist Keita Nam, especially for our RAP. Keita, a proud Kaurna, Narungga, and Māori woman, titled the piece Connecting with Community.
Artist Statement: “This artwork signifies UnitingCare Wesley Bowden (UCWB) as a team and their work within the community, creating strong relationships, and helping shape the bright future of Bowden.”