Delivering alcohol information to at-risk culturally and linguistically diverse communities

Cheers? This is the lead phrase in the health message currently being promoted as part of the Alcohol Project. The message, translated in five languages, asks us to think more carefully about what it is we are toasting when drinking alcohol.

The Alcohol Project is a 12 month project being conducted with Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Centre and the Department of Health. The Project aims to spread health promotion messages about alcohol related risks and harms to five communities identified as 'at risk' due to a number of factors, including a poor understanding of the health service system and the lack of access to culturally sensitive treatment services.

By the end of June, approximately thirty health promotion sessions will have been conducted with groups from the Arabic, Polish, Spanish, Sudanese and Vietnamese communities. Posters and brochures have also been developed in the five languages, after extensive consultation with the communities.

An alcohol information resource pack containing a 'Cheers?' poster and brochures (in Arabic, Polish, Spanish, Sudanese-Arabic and Vietnamese) is currently being distributed to general practices, multicultural and ethno-specific groups, and community organisations. To obtain an information pack, please contact Deb Jonson either by email deborahj@turningpoint.org.au or telephone (03) 8413 8700.

For further information about the Project, contact Dr Regina Quiazon by email regina@mcwh.com.au.

Below are MCWH bilingual health educators with members of the Project Advisory Group.