Diabetes Victoria has established a new Vietnamese peer support group to provide culturally-relevant diabetes management help to the community.
The group, funded by a Brimbank council grant, aims to improve access to diabetes resources and support for the city’s Vietnamese population.
“We identified a gap in culturally inclusive diabetes support, especially for communities that face additional barriers in accessing health information and services,” Diabetes Victoria peer support team lead Giovanna Taverna said.
“This Vietnamese peer support group was created as a one-year pilot to improve access to diabetes-related support in Brimbank, which has one of the highest numbers of Vietnamese people living with type 2 diabetes in Victoria.
“We know that language, culture, and trust are important. That’s why this group is delivered in Vietnamese by diabetes nurse educator Yung Nguyen, who shares cultural understanding and language with the community”
Nearly 16,500 people in Brimbank are living with type 2 diabetes, according to the National Diabetes Services Scheme.
The new peer support group provides a safe, welcoming space for locals to learn practical self-management strategies, connect with health professionals, and share their experiences with others who understand their cultural context.
“When information is shared in a person’s first language and in a respectful, familiar environment, it can be easier to ask questions, share stories, and build confidence in managing diabetes,” Ms Taverna said.
“This leads to stronger community connections and better health outcomes.”
The next session is Thursday, May 9, from 10am-noon, at St Albans Community Centre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.
