Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CALD), Cognitive Disability and the Justice System

Course type

One-day, face-to-face course.

Who attended?

This course was developed for disability workers, community service workers and case managers who provide support to people from CALD backgrounds with cognitive disability, in contact with the criminal justice system.

Course Description

The purpose of this workshop was to focus attention on the approximately 25% of people with cognitive disability in NSW who are from a culturally and linguistically diverse background, some of whom are in contact with the criminal justice system.

The aim was to broaden understanding of the role and importance of culture in interactions with, and work alongside, people with cognitive disability. Especially when they are in contact or at risk of being in contact with the criminal justice system.

By deepening understanding of culture and exploring cultural lenses, we strengthen abilities, knowledge and skills to respond in a more culturally responsive and person centred way.

This workshop was essentially divided into two sections:

In the first section it explored ideas of diversity in the Australian context. It concluded with an exploration of cultural biases, assumptions and blind spots in order to heighten self-awareness and critical thinking for part two.

The second section explored culturally responsive practices and focussed on three particular skills: empathy, listening and choice making, and how they can be used effectively in working cross culturally.

Outcomes of the course

By the end of this one-day workshop, it was expected participants would be able to:

Understand the importance of culture (in its broadest sense) and how it impacts on everything we do
Gain greater insights into cultural assumptions and biases
Have a deeper knowledge of the experiences of migrant and refugees specifically in relation to people with cognitive disability, who may be in contact with the justice system
Increase knowledge and skills in working with people from CALD backgrounds with cognitive disability, who may be in contact with the justice system