Communicating COVID-19 health information to culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities: the importance of partnership, co-design, and behavioural and implementation science

Abstract Objective: To consider the challenges of communicating COVID-19 directives to culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Melbourne and Australia, and present evidence-based solutions to influence policy and practice on promoting relevant health behaviours. Type of program or service: We reflect on the experiences of CALD communities during the COVID-19 crisis, and particularly the role of community leaders in shaping health behaviours in their communities. Methods: This article draws on a series of dialogues between CALD community and advocacy leaders, and health behaviour change scientists in July 2020. We present the challenges experienced, and solutions offered, by CALD leaders in communicating health information throughout the pandemic and consider the importance of behavioural and implementation science in reducing inequities in healthcare communication. Results: During the Covid-19 pandemic, CALD leaders have played a critical role in filling gaps in government messaging by providing up-to-date health advice and cultivating community support for relevant health behaviours (e.g., physical distancing, testing, hand hygiene). Nevertheless, attempts to communicate recommended health behaviours may not be reaching, and/or understood by, all members of CALD communities. In synthesizing the accounts of CALD leaders, three key findings emerged: first, partnerships between CALD leaders, communities and government are key, including the establishment of a national CALD advisory group on COVID-19; second, shifting knowledge into action requires moving beyond disseminating information to designing tailored solutions to reflect the diversity in our society; and third, the diverse needs and circumstances of people and communities must be at the centre of health communication and behaviour change strategies. Implementation science is needed to action the solutions offered by CALD leaders for equity of access and outcomes in COVID-19 health support. Lessons learnt: Insights from behavioural and implementation science can inform communication strategies that help align human behaviour with the recommendations of health experts. This coupled with sustained partnership and collaboration with CALD communities, understanding the cultural context and the appropriate tailoring and delivery of communications will ensure health related messages are not lost in translation. These lessons should be applied not only to the current pandemic but to post-pandemic social and economic recovery.