There may be times in your role as a carer for a loved one with a disability, chronic illness, aged frailty, or mental illness, when you may feel overwhelmed and alone. That need not be the case! There are others out there just like you, with whom you can share your experiences.
GCA's Carer Support group was formed to meet the needs of unpaid carers. It seeks to enable carers - those who give so much to others - the opportunity to enjoy friendship, and to get help and support from others who understand what it's like to be a carer. We offer a sympathetic, non-judgemental ear, in a pleasant environment, and sometimes, that can mean the world.
Association President, Jean Tops Said “Carers are often very isolated people.They are used to putting the needs of those they care for at the top of the list with their own needs coming a distant second. Our new support group is about putting Carers needs first”.
Sometimes, CSG meeting are simply a chance to have a chat and a cuppa. Other times, meetings may include a guest speaker, or activity. Some meetings may seem more like social outings, and might take place in other locations, if an activity has been planned for that day. If you provide us with your email address, we can keep you posted on what’s happening for each meeting. Otherwise, we advise that you ring prior to the meeting for details.
There are 26,000 family carers in Gippsland and less than 50% of them are likely to have had any contact with services. Carers come from all walks of life and, even if they are aware that they may be eligible for some assistance, they are often isolated, under-resource,d and unable to negotiate a complex landscape that includes form filling, assessments and dealing with numerous agencies.
The Support Group meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month, 10am, at Gippsland Disability Advocacy, 8 Hopetoun Ave, Morwell, is free, and is open to all unpaid family carers in Gippsland. If you would like more information or plan to attend, please ring Dot Kitwood on 0402 457 241 or Carers Place on 03 5133-3343 any Tues/Wed/Thur from 9.30am to 4.00pm
We look forward to seeing you there!
