A new health initiative called Taking Care of Me is being launched in northern Adelaide with a focus on health and wellbeing for men from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
Led by the Multicultural Communities Council of SA (MCCSA), in partnership with Preventive Health SA and The Hospital Research Foundation Group, the two-year project will work directly with six communities to improve health literacy, access to preventive health initiatives, promote early engagement with primary health services, and reduce preventable diseases.
Men from CALD backgrounds often face barriers such as limited health literacy, unfamiliarity with the Australian health system, and cultural misconceptions about illness and treatment.
These challenges result in lower use of GPs and screening services, and higher reliance on emergency departments.
MCCSA project lead Ukash Ahmed said the project aimed to encourage men to seek help earlier with primary health services and will include collaboration with GPs and health services.
“This project is about breaking down those barriers and supporting men to understand, prioritise and act on their health needs before it’s too late,” Mr Ahmed said.
Using MCCSA’s proven men’s health engagement model, Taking Care of Me will train local community members to become Men’s Health Champions, equipping them with culturally relevant knowledge and resources and empowering them to be role models for their communities.
These champions will lead health conversations within their communities, organise events, and work alongside healthcare professionals to address issues such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and mental health.
“Improving men’s health isn’t just about treating disease – it’s about building trust, understanding and shared knowledge,” Mr Ahmed said.
Marina Bowshall, Chief Executive of Preventive Health SA, said: “As an agency we are committed to improving health equity, ensuring everyone in the South Australian community can take steps to protect and improve their health and wellbeing and ensure health information and services are accessible and responsive to community needs.”
“Co-funding this initiative recognises that community members are often best placed to help identify local issues and create local solutions, and together we can work towards better health outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse communities (CALD) across the State.”
Professor Paul Flynn, CEO of The Hospital Research Foundation Group, said: “This project demonstrates our commitment to equitable health access for all South Australians.”
“By working directly with communities, we can support long-term change beyond the clinic and into the heart of people’s daily lives.”
