NSLHD recently received the 2023 NSW Multicultural Health Communication “Transforming the patient experience” Award for their project: Nourishing Our CALD Head and Neck and Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients, North Sydney Local Health District. 

This project was proudly funded by the Cancer Institute. Using a co-design approach with consumers and volunteer groups, the team developed culturally and language appropriate diet, nutrition, and speech-related resources for head and neck, oesophageal, and upper-GI cancer patients. 

The project exemplifies the power of strong partnerships in driving tangible change. Cancer Innovation and Strategy Manager, Heidi Roland Kenn, and Multicultural Health Service Manager, Cathy Butler, supported speech, diet and nursing staff to develop comprehensive materials to support cancer patients across NSW.

The team translated materials into Mandarin, Cantonese, and Korean, recognising the importance of tailoring resources to diverse communities. All materials are available on the NSLHD Cancer Centre webpage. 

Looking ahead, Heidi highlighted the ongoing commitment to expanding these efforts to more communities in the future.