Care for a carer this Carers Week
National Carers Week, from 11 to 17 October, is a time to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness of the more than 3 million Australians who provide unpaid care to a family member or friend.
Anyone can be a carer.
Many people don’t see themselves as carers, because they are children, parents, partners, relatives or friends who care for someone close to them.
This Carers Week, we encourage all Australians to recognise, support and care for the carers in their families, workplaces and communities.
Here are some ways you can support a carer today:
- check in regularly
- initiate support
- offer to help so they can take a break
- acknowledge and appreciate carers in your life
- encourage carers to look after their own health and wellbeing
- tell them about Carer Gateway.
If you care for a family member or friend with disability, a medical condition, mental illness, or who is frail due to age, then Carer Gateway can help you.
Carer Gateway is an Australian Government program providing free services and support for unpaid carers.
These supports include:
- in-person and online peer support groups
- tailored support packages to help with accessing planned respite, transport services and more
- in-person and phone counselling
- in-person and online self-guided coaching
- online skills courses to support your wellbeing and help you understand legal responsibilities related to your caring role
- access to emergency respite if you suddenly find you can’t provide care, for example if you become ill or injured.
To access carer services, call 1800 422 737, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, or visit the Carer Gateway website www.carergateway.gov.au.
National Carers Week is delivered in partnership with Carers Australia.
Visit www.carersweek.com.au to learn more.