Understanding well‐being and safety for First Nations children and young people in the Riverland—Engaging with metic knowledge via a capability approach

Abstract

Aboriginal culture is both a strength and a protective factor for Aboriginal children; yet, we continue to see disparities in education, health and well‐being outcomes. To improve outcomes for Aboriginal children and families, local cultural ways of knowing, being and doing need to be incorporated into policy and practice. The strength‐based capability approach draws on the experiences, needs and values of people in context to understand the opportunities and freedoms to be and do what is culturally valued. Adopting a “capability approach,” First Nations peoples from the rural Riverland region of South Australia were involved in culturally safe yarning circles to explore aspirations for their children's well‐being and safety. In doing so, a better appreciation of the personal, social, structural and environmental factors that impinge on the achievement of well‐being and safety was possible. We highlight how a capability approach provides a valuable tool for engaging with and embracing metic knowledge in policymaking and practice. A more meaningful understanding of safety, well‐being and “the good life” in a community is critical for ensuring that policy and practice efforts can be directed in ways that create outcomes desired by Community.