Known for its huge, tandoor-cooked Afghan breads that are longer than skateboards, the Afghan Traditional Bakery on Auburn Road is one of the many businesses accessing education and compliance programs in languages other than English compiled by a multi-agency regulatory group.
Helping him make a number of Covid-safe adjustments in his bakery, Mr Hussain says he has stayed open thanks to help from the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD), particularly Multicultural Health program officer Fouzia Hamdard, community leader Arif Nabizadah and the Environmental Health team.
“Fouzia helps a lot,” he said.
“It is great to be able to ask questions in my own language and she explains everything very nicely.
“I have managed to retain my three casual employees and my practice of supplying free bread to those in need.”
Ms Hamdard has also helped other businesses in Auburn, Merrylands and Guildford, and regularly provides the Afghan community with updated information through her network of contacts.
“I understand my community and their concerns, and I’m glad I can help them access accurate information. People feel more confident speaking with me directly to share their concerns,” she said.
“There are many misconceptions about Covid-19 spread through the internet and word of mouth. It’s important we pass along reliable health information in people’s own language.”
Details: WSLHD Environmental Health team, 9840 3603 or email WSLHD-eho@health.nsw.gov.au.
