Social and behaviour change training package for nutrition in East Asia and the Pacific

Social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) is the strategic use of communication approaches to promote changes in knowledge, attitudes, norms, beliefs and behaviours. It is a participatory process, engaging individuals and communities in identifying and demanding their rights and adopting and sustaining positive behaviours.

UNICEF has long-standing experiences with using SBCC as a key change strategy in UNICEF programmes, including those aiming to improving maternal and child nutrition. Nevertheless, an assessment carried out by UNICEF EAPRO in partnership with Rain Barrel Communications across Cambodia, Laos and the Philippines, demonstrated that the strategic planning, capacity, and budgeting of SBCC programs for nutrition among responsible government department and ministries could be further strengthened.

With reference to the assessment findings, UNICEF EAPRO commissioned Rain Barrel Communications to develop a comprehensive curriculum and training package that could be used to strengthen the use of SBCC for improved nutrition outcomes throughout East Asia & Pacific. In this process, the SBCC curriculum and training package was also adapted to the emerging SBC approach within UNICEF’s programs, which aims more broadly to empower individuals and communities, and lower structural barriers that hinder people from adopting positive practices and societies from becoming more equitable, inclusive, cohesive and peaceful.