WHAT ARE YOUR MESSAGES?
Key messages are used to promote positive behavioural change and the benefits this change will bring to people, families and communities. Ask yourself what is it you want to tell your audiences and what you want them to know or do as a result of your project.
Some examples of key messages:
- Healthy food makes healthier people
- Walking will help make you strong and healthy
- Having a check-up can stop you getting sick
- Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your kids
- Better health makes stronger communities
You can have more than one key message but it’s best not to have too many so that people can remember them. It’s best to have less than four key messages.
You also need to make sure that you have consulted the community about the key messages. Messages can be very specific to your community and your project.
Key messages can be translated into local languages so that they have more meaning to people. Aboriginal Health Workers may be able to assist with this translation. The target group can often help by identifying the common language/slang that would have meaning for them.
