Helping refugees and new arrivals to better understand and make decisions about their health and health care is a focus of the Adelaide Refugee and New Arrivals Program (ARANAP).

The program is designed to support refugees and people who have been in Australia for less than five years – helping them access culturally appropriate primary health care services, improving their knowledge of health issues and supporting connection of services to ensure their health care needs are met.

Some of the key outcomes for 2021/2022 include support to attend eye and hearing assessments as well as dental check-ups. In addition, a number of health expos were held:

Health EXPO 2022 for multicultural women

This expo was about teaching clients to live healthy lives as well as information on how to help their families stay healthy. Dr Salma discussed common health conditions among communities and how they can be improved with modification of diet and lifestyle. Attendees were able to ask questions and learn more.

Health EXPO for over 50s

Participants from the Australian Refugee Association’s Engaged Program were the target audience for this expo. It provided a wonderful opportunity for members of our Bhutanese and African communities aged over 50 to attend. This expo was attended by 35 participants.

An allied health podiatrist provided information which was well received as many clients were not aware of how they could care for their feet. A yoga workshop was also positively received, with many saying they would continue to practice at home.

Health expo for young people 2022

Twenty young people (eight male and 12 female) attended this expo and learnt about the importance of mental and physical health to navigate life successfully.

Attendees had an opportunity to meet mental health professionals and learnt ways to access appropriate professional support when needed. They also learnt about programs, youth support and health and settlement services that are available to them.

Mrs Zakiyyah from Family Haven talked about the importance of setting boundaries for selfcare and introduced an anxiety test that can be done anywhere and at any time. The attendees also enjoyed a yoga session where they learnt about various yoga exercises to improve their mental and physical health. All participants received a yoga mat to take home, along with hygiene products and health information.

Health EXPO 2022 for women of Arabic background

Attendees were provided with information about how to live healthy lives including how to care for healthy bones. A yoga session demonstrated they can improve their strength and flexibility in the comfort for their own home.

Dr Salma discussed common health conditions and how they can be improved with modification of diet and lifestyle. She also provided an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and learn more.