Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

Pamphlet

All about bowel screening

Judges’ comments

The judges agreed this pamphlet is an excellent example of effective plain language. They praised the authors for making complex medical information accessible to a very broad audience. The judges felt the pamphlet demystifies a potentially intimidating health procedure and has probably saved lives.

The purpose of the communication is clear from the start. The judges noted the logical structure, simple headings, and short, focused paragraphs. The language is precise and engaging, and it avoids medical jargon. The judges also found the professional and encouraging tone to be ideal for the pamphlet’s purpose.

The judges described the layout and presentation as excellent. They highlighted the clean design, large text, and calming colour scheme. Reassuring words like ‘free’ and ‘simple’ are used effectively. The judges also praised the authentic and welcoming photos, which add to the overall warmth and positivity of the document.

Media statement

Health New Zealand’s National Bowel Screening Programme (NBSP) is very excited to be a finalist in the People’s Choice award at the Plain Language Awards.

NBSP manager Cathy Whiteside says bowel screening saves lives, but there’s no getting away from the fact that promoting it requires talking about poo!

“We know there’s a bit of a ‘yuck’ factor, so we’re really proud that our main resource All about bowel screening has been recognised for clearly and respectfully giving people the information they need.”

“People can find doing a screening test confronting — particularly waiting for the result. The All about bowel screening brochure uses simple language to set out how to do the test, when and how you will get your results, and what bowel cancer is.”

“The brochure is available in 19 languages and four accessibility formats.”

Cathy says the bowel screening programme has detected nearly 3000 cancers since it began to be rolled out in 2017. “At least 40% of these cancers were detected at an early stage, when they can often be successfully treated.”

“As it says in the brochure, bowel screening is free, quick and easy to do at home. When you get the test, just do it!”

“Bowel screening is simple — and the way you talk about it should be too.”

She says she’d also like to acknowledge everyone who works in bowel screening. “While this award is about our brochure, my colleagues in the national team, and all through the country, work incredibly hard every day to support people to do this very important little test.”

Cathy Whiteside
National Bowel Screening Programme Manager
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora