Background:

In 2013, the City of Armadale’s (CoA) Healthy Communities Initiative (HCI) identified the need for entry level training courses in nutrition aimed at disadvantaged and vulnerable populations. In an attempt to address this need, the Leadership Development and Nutrition Program was developed by a collaborative partnership comprising of the South Metropolitan Public Health Unit, Women’s Health and Family Services (WHFS), City of Armadale and Challenger Institute of Technology (Challenger TAFE).

Methods:

Several planning meetings were held to develop the program. Content of these meetings included finalising the course structure (e.g. level of qualification), units to be taught and the practical aspects of running the program (days, times, location and resources). Program sustainability and evaluation methodologies also were discussed and agreed upon.

Results/Discussions:

These meetings resulted in development and implementation of the Leadership Development and Nutrition program. This consists of a two-tiered TAFE course at Certificate 1 and 2 levels. These accommodate a range of educational needs, provide flexible funding arrangements and continue to address the needs of the CoA community.

The partnership addressed program sustainability by obtaining funding through HCI and WHFS for 2 years of program implementation. Furthermore, the program has been formally adopted within Challenger TAFE and WHFS as core business. An evaluation study is being developed in conjunction with Curtin University of Technology to determine the program’s impact on participants over time. Measures will include behavioural changes regarding healthy eating, employment, and quality of life.

Certificate 1 commenced on the 11th of February 2014 with nine students. Certificate 2 is commencing on 17th of June.

Conclusions/implications:

Education is well recognised as a major social determinant of health. By introducing an entry level program, we are providing an opportunity for vulnerable and disadvantaged members of our community to access education, participate in the workforce and improve their health knowledge and skills.