A groundbreaking initiative is set to enhance healthcare literacy and access for culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) communities and individuals with intersectional identities, including those identifying as Rainbow Migrants—a term introduced by Dr. Lukasz Krzyzowski. Umbrella Multicultural Community Care Services Inc. (Umbrella Inc.), in partnership with Palliative Care WA and Cancer Council WA, is launching the Bridging Health Gaps: Building Capacity in Palliative Care and Cancer Prevention for CaLD and Rainbow Migrant Communities project. This initiative is funded by the Office of Multicultural Interests (OMI) and will focus on breaking down cultural and language barriers to healthcare services.
Empowering communities through education
The Bridging Health Gaps project consists of two distinct but interrelated components:
- Culturally Responsive Palliative Care Workshops In partnership with Palliative Care WA, this component will help enhance the awareness, accessibility, and cultural competency of community members regarding palliative care services.
- Cancer Education and Resource Access In collaboration with Cancer Council WA, this initiative will improve engagement, and accessibility of supportive cancer services. The workshops will provide targeted education, culturally relevant resources, and practical tools to empower communities to navigate supportive care and palliative support services with confidence.
Addressing barriers to healthcare access
Research shows that many CaLD and Rainbow Migrant individuals face significant barriers to accessing health services, including cultural stigma, language limitations, and lack of trust in the medical system.
