Resthaven Continues to Demonstrate Commitment to Diversity with New Role

Resthaven’s proud commitment to diversity and inclusion continues with the latest announcement that Priscilla de Pree has accepted a change in role from Project Officer – Multicultural and Diversity, to the newly evolved position of Diversity and Inclusion Lead. The original position was established in 2005, when Resthaven Incorporated introduced a role that solely focussed on multiculturalism. Over the years the focus has evolved to incorporate Resthaven’s richly diverse community, to embrace and respect each person’s beliefs, culture, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, lifestyle, life experiences and values.

‘The evolution of this role highlights Resthaven’s continued commitment to embracing diversity and inclusion,’ CEO Darren Birbeck says. ‘We are stronger as an organisation for the rich and varied perspectives that diversity and inclusion bring. Resthaven is an inclusive workplace for all employees, and we offer a culturally safe service for our customers. The Diversity and Inclusion Lead will play a crucial role in shaping and promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives throughout Resthaven.’

Priscilla is excited to take on this reshaped role, having significantly contributed to diversity and inclusion initiatives since starting with Resthaven in 2012.

Diversity and inclusion at Resthaven

Resthaven has a richly diverse community, with statistics showing that 16 per cent of Resthaven clients and 17 per cent1 of Resthaven residents come from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. This is reflective of South Australia’s over 65+ population, where 18 per cent2 are from CALD backgrounds.

‘Each year we compile our data to learn the background of Resthaven’s customers and employees,’ Priscilla says. ‘We then compare the results with Census data from that local area. We note any differences and ask questions about why they might be occurring. Our consumers represent 129 countries of birth, and our employees have 93 countries of birth.’

Darren says ‘To help us better appreciate and embrace the unique beliefs, values, customs and behaviours that each culture brings, Resthaven has invested in cultural intelligence training for our staff.’

Priscilla herself was born in the Netherlands, moving to Australia in 2006. As part of her studies, Priscilla completed at Masters in Transcultural Pedagogy, knowledge that has served her well during her career.

 
Priscilla de Pree at Resthaven's Harmony Week event

‘I offer a lot of support, guidance and training for our staff,’ Priscilla says. ‘I see my new title as highlighting the transitional change in the journey of Resthaven. Our “diversity” is a fact, and our “inclusion” is the act. Inclusion is how we adapt to increasing diversity within our organisation.’

Priscilla’s role spans the entire organisation, helping to support all departments and improve services for clients and residents. Resthaven regularly participates in and celebrates a range of significant days and events and activities, including Easter, Harmony Week, Closing the Gap, Pride events, Diwali, Christmas and others.

‘I love my role and the opportunity to work with people from different backgrounds,’ Priscilla says. ‘At Resthaven we encourage people to bring their “whole selves” to work and we are committed to meeting the ongoing goals of our Diversity Action Plan.

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