This year, PCV has successfully delivered over 15 community information sessions to seniors and carer support groups from multicultural communities. Our ability to conduct these sessions has been significantly enhanced by engaging professional interpreters for in-language support.
Our dedicated team of volunteer facilitators has become skilled at collaborating with interpreters in various languages. Notably, one session featured working with four interpreters simultaneously!
To ensure quality communication, all interpreters receive briefing materials and a Glossary of Terms in their respective languages to assist in their planning and preparing them for potentially sensitive discussions. Additionally, each session is complemented by multilingual resources distributed to all participants.
Working with interpreters plays a crucial role in making palliative care and advance care planning accessible to everyone. By bridging language barriers, interpreters facilitate deeper understanding and encourage open dialogue. This creates a safe space for community members to share their concerns, ask questions, and express their wishes.
Moreover, these conversations can help demystify the processes involved in end-of-life care, allowing individuals to confront their fears and misconceptions. Sharing stories and experiences can also foster a sense of community and support, making it easier for people to navigate these challenging topics. Ultimately, this collaborative approach enriches the overall experience and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their own care and the care of others.
To find out more about PCV’s free information sessions, or to book a session, please visit our website or contact Heike Fleischmann via hfleischmann@pallcarevic.asn.au.
Article by:
Tonina Gucciardo-Masci
Community Engagement Manager
Palliative Care Victoria
October 2024