Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Since 2014 the Mushuau and the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nations of Labrador have been working to improve their health using models that are based on the strength of their culture. Data shows that they the worst health outcomes of any population within the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. This concerning data led the communities to partner with researchers to address their problem of health. Together we formed a strong collaborative team that will build on the Innu culture and understanding of 'minuinniuin' (wellbeing) to create solutions that work for the Innu. Our team believes that we need to centre this study in the particular Innu perspective and aim to understand Innu concepts of wellbeing, how Innu achieve minuinniuin, and what are the enablers and the obstacles to attaining wellbeing. At the end of the study we will propose integrated model(s) of Innu wellbeing and will be able to make recommendations for practice and for policy to enhance wellbeing for Innu purposes. Doing this will help create solutions that will improve the overall health of the Mushuau and Sheshatshiu Innu of Labrador.