Barriers to attending rehabilitation treatment centres: A case of the Gumbaynnggir Nation

Abstract

Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Centres, operated by mainstream community and government bodies or by Aboriginal groups, acknowledge that attendance by Aboriginal peoples has consistently been found to be low. This thesis is about examining what are the barriers and reasons for resistance by Gumbaynnggir people, to attendance at either non-Aboriginal mainstream or Aboriginal Rehabilitation Treatment Centres. Research was undertaken utilising a qualitative approach, incorporating content analysis of literature, and six in-depth interviews with Aboriginal people, both men and women, from the Gumbaynnggir Nation of Aboriginal peoples. (The selected region is also defined as Mid North Coast Health Service Northern Sector New South Wales). Interview data was analysed from both the content and narrative approaches. The criteria for interview participant selection specifically focused on Aboriginal participants who are currently experiencing or may have experienced alcohol and other drug problems. Consent for interview was gained not only from the University of Sydney Ethics Committee, but also from Elders of Gumbaynnggir Nation of Aboriginal Peoples. The research undertaken in this Thesis shows that several factors directly affect a persons decision as to whether they do participate in rehabilitation, programs, and the extent of their participation. The findings from both the Literature Review and the Interview transcripts have been represented together and detail a large range of identified barriers to attending treatment programs. The main findings related to issues of transport, cost of service, location, presence of non-Aboriginal staff, gender, family needs, cultural needs, cultural clash, and the need for community and family Elders to be involved in counseling and support. This research shows that service providers in the area of drug and alcohol rehabilitation need to take into consideration the identified needs of the community. Recommendations for future research and program needs are detailed.