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'The Voice' Blog June 2024
Welcome To The June Edition Of The Voice
CEO Message
Hello everyone,
I’m going to be a bit cheeky and use this month’s CEO message to ask for your help.
The National Carer Survey opened on 1 June, and we are keen to have as many people as possible complete it. This is because the data generated through the survey is vital to support our efforts in increasing understanding of, and support for, carers.
To be honest, it’s a bit of a time commitment – it’ll likely take you twenty minutes or more to complete. But if you could possibly squeeze it in over June/July we would be so appreciative. Click here to access the survey. Responses will be anonymous and analysed as a whole.
In other news, it’s been a really busy time for carer events. Carers Victoria staff and I have very much enjoyed connecting with carers across various parts of the state.
If you haven’t attended any events recently, I encourage you to scroll down to our What’s On Calendar to see what’s coming up. The feedback we receive following events is overwhelmingly positive, with many carers saying they leave feeling better equipped for their caring roles.
I hope that you and yours stay warm, well, and connected.
Take care all,
Judith
Consultation Extended to 30 June 2024
Calling First Nations Carers
Carers Victoria invites Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and services to review and give feedback on our draft ‘Innovate’ Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), to help inform our work with First Nations carers over the next few years.
As the peak body representing unpaid carers in Victoria, it is important that our services are appropriate, welcoming, and culturally safe – for all carers. Carers Victoria understands that, despite our best intentions, we may not always get this right.
This RAP consultation is an opportunity for you to tell us how we, as a peak body, can be more inclusive and welcoming so you feel safer accessing our services.
We are also keen to establish partnerships and referral pathways with appropriate bodies who do have the specialist expertise to provide the full range of culturally safe and appropriate services individual carers may need, so we can offer the best possible referrals.
We encourage as many people as possible who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander to be part of the consultation. To find out more please speak with our RAP Champion, Leah Lonsdale, via email to leah.lonsdale@carersvictoria.org.au or phone 0407 326 171.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts.
What’s On In June and Early July 2024
Warm up this winter with events to get you moving and meet like-minded carers, such as our walking and gentle exercise groups. Or if you prefer to keep cosy at home, you might like to join one of our online workshops.
Visit our What’s On calendar to explore what we have on offer. All events are free of charge, but places are limited.
Find out what’s happening:
New to My Aged Care?
Join an introductory session for carers and families wanting to know more about the My Aged Care system including the types of services available, eligibility and assessment processes. In June, we are running face to face sessions in Mount Martha and Leopold (near Geelong) as well as an online session. Click on the relevant link below to find out more:
- Online (Zoom) - Tuesday 11 June
- Mount Martha - Wednesday 19 June
- Leopold (Geelong) - Tuesday 25 June
First Nations Carers
Yarning Circle Wyndham Vale
A free event for First Nations carers by Carers Victoria. Come along for a yarn, connect with community, and share a cuppa! We are keen to hear from, and chat with, local First Nations peoples to understand your carer needs. We are hoping this free event will be an opportunity for you to join in an important conversation about being a carer.
Please note: this session is NOT open to agencies or service providers.
Walking Groups
Western Programs Walking Groups
Carers in Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Caroline Springs, Moonee Valley and Werribee are invited to come along to a walking group in your area. Catch up with other carers over a light brunch and find out about local supports and services for carers. Places are limited, so register your place now.
Parks Victoria Walking Alongside Carers Victoria
Carers Victoria is collaborating with Parks Victoria to further promote the value of outdoor exercise and wellbeing, urging carers to participate in the suite of Guided Park Walks on offer.
Parks Victoria is offering free guided park walks across the state, guided by trained volunteers to enjoy, and explore urban parks or bushland and suitable for all ages.
From the You Yangs, Macedon Regional Park and Wilsons Promontory, to Yarra Bend Park, Wetlands, Lysterfield Park and Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, the choices are as diverse as they are beautiful.
It is an opportunity for carers to enjoy the stunning serenity of trees and wildlife, as well as being able to relax and catch up with friends or family for a coffee at a nearby café.
Whether you are a first-time nature walker or have had previous experience, Parks Victoria has created a mix of walks for different capabilities.
Heart Foundation Walking Groups: Australia wide
There's a reason why walking is one of the most popular forms of activity in Australia. Join a Heart Foundation walking group to reduce stress, be more alert, have a healthier body and build strong relationships.
Latest News
Carer Event Highlights
We’ve held a record number of events and activities across Melbourne and regional Victoria over the past few months, providing a mix of opportunities for carers to connect locally, and to take some time out from their day-to-day care responsibilities.
Carers Connect Event
In April, Bendigo Carers enjoyed an opportunity to get to know one another at our Carers Connect event, followed by a workshop exploring support service systems.
We were pleased to welcome several staff from the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative, as well as a representative from Bendigo Health and other local service providers.
Young Carers Event
Young Carers in Ballarat enjoyed a catered picnic held in partnership with Little Dreamers. Carers and their families braved the crisp autumn weather for a fun-filled afternoon featuring entertainment, games and even facepainting!
Bairnsdale Mingle
Our CEO Judith Abbott attended a Mingle event in Bairnsdale held in partnership with East Gippsland Shire Council. The event was attended by Tom Crook, East Gippsland Mayor, Fiona Weigall, Council CEO, and Tim Bull, Member for East Gippsland. We thank these representatives for coming along to ensure carers are recognised, included and supported.
Family Respite Event
We partnered with Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) and Filipino Australian Friendship Association in Geelong Inc (FAFAG) to hold a family respite event attended by both carers and care recipients. Together, they participated in activities including a Tai Chi session (pictured here).
Thanks to everyone who attended!
Latest News
Dignified and Respectful Decisions Project
Palliative Care Victoria is seeking assistance from carers with a project to evaluate the use and utility of resources for the Dignified and Respectful Decisions (DARD) project.
They would like to hear from carers - family members or significant others - who have accessed the DARD resources on the website and/or used the available Resource Booklet in their role as a decision-maker for a family member or significant other with cognitive impairment.
To find out more, contact Peter Palamara, Research Assistant on: p.palamara@ecu.edu.au or call (08) 6304 2241.
In Other News
Victoria’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centres - An Extra Support for Carers of People with Mental Health Challenges
Over the past year, eight Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect centres have opened across Victoria, as part of the Victorian Government’s mental health reform agenda.
These are a concrete reflection of the Government’s recognition that the carers, families, supporters, and kin of people with mental health challenges are an essential part of Victoria’s mental health ecosystem and need to be supported.
Importantly, like many of the services and supports that Carers Victoria offers to carers in all kinds of care relationships, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect centres are staffed by people who have their own lived experience of being in a care relationship. We all know that seeking assistance can significantly impact your experience as a carer.
If you are in a care relationship with someone with mental health challenges, Carers Victoria is able to assist you via our carer access line: 1800 514 845. But you may also benefit from contacting one of these new Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect centres. A list of centre locations and contact details can be accessed on the Better Health Channel.
In Other News
Federal Budget: What Does it Mean for Carers?
With a new National Carer Strategy under development, there were few carer-specific items to be found in the recent Federal Budget. The Budget had only one targeted change for carers with recipients of Carer Payment now able to work up to 100 hours over a 4-week settlement period, instead of 25 hours per week. Other changes include removing education, volunteering and travel time from the participation limit and allowing carers to use single temporary cessation of care (TCC) days.
To find out more about what the federal budget meant for carers, have a look at Carers Australia’s analysis.
Competition Winner
Drumroll Please! Coles Competition Winner
A big congratulations to the winner of our Coles Gift Card competition, Susan from Balwyn, Victoria.
Competition
Our Flight Centre Competition is Back!
Dreaming of a relaxing getaway? Good news! You can be in the running to receive a $1,500 Flight Centre gift card. The competition closes at midnight 31 August 2024.
Our competitions are open to all Carers Victoria members. Not a member yet? Don’t worry, becoming a member is free and easy. Visit our membership page to join our caring community and enter now!
Terms and Conditions apply.
Fundraising
Play for Purpose Raffle - Last Chance to Win the $250K Prize Pack!
As part of our ongoing fundraising activities, Carers Victoria participates in Play for Purpose raffles. The current raffle closes at 8.00pm 13 June 2024, so if you’re interested in being involved, you’ll need to move quickly.
With only days left, you could be taking home the $250K First Prize Pack which includes a Volkswagen California Beach valued at over $115K + $120K in cashable gold bullion plus over $14K in gift vouchers.
Don’t miss your chance to win this incredible $250K First Prize Pack by purchasing a $10 ticket today!
And remember, with Play for Purpose every ticket you buy raises funds for other carers like you.
Membership
Encourage Your Family and Friends Who are in Caring Roles to Join Carers Victoria
Not only is membership free, but it also gives carers access to information, funded events and other things specifically tailored to their needs.
Membership benefits include:
- Exclusive invitations to events including our popular Mingles, carer workshops and programs.
- Championing for real change through consultations, focus groups and research.
- Staying informed with our monthly eBulletin The Voice, jam-packed with important carer issues, events and stories.
- Free digital access to the magazine Australian Carers Guide.
- Special member offers and discounts on goods and services including Hoyts movie tickets, Accor accommodation, and Live Life Foods pre-packaged meals.
Out Now!
Australian Carers Guide Winter Edition
The Australian Carers Guide Winter edition is loaded with great articles and activities to support carers.
In this issue, ACG shares essential tips on caring for a loved one with dementia, two exclusive Maggie Beer recipes, and everything you need to know about maximising financial assistance as a carer.
Plus, ACG helps you train your brain with a selection of puzzles, quizzes and IQ tests!
Read the magazine online or purchase the latest edition at your favourite newsagent. The Australian Carers Guide is circulated to more than 80,000 readers and subscribers and it is the go-to magazine for unpaid carers around the country.
Carer Story
Adua’s Story
As Adua approaches her mother Antonietta’s 87th birthday, she reflects on caring for her, and the emotional strength and support she receives from her mother in return.
Adua strives to be the best caregiver she can be for Antonietta. ‘She's not just a mother to me; she's my rock, my confidante, my everything.’
Adua is visually impaired herself, which can sometimes make simple tasks more difficult. However, she has learnt to adapt, finding innovative ways to assist her mother in her day-to-day activities.
Each morning, Adua makes her way to her mother’s house, to check on her wellbeing and provide whatever assistance she may need.
Antonietta remains positive and resilient despite her many health challenges, including a heart condition and arthritis.
‘Her smile still lights up the room, filling my heart with warmth and love,’ Adua says. ‘As her birthday nears, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the woman who has shaped me into the person I am today.’
When asked what advice she would give to someone just beginning their caring journey, Adua stresses that self-care is equally important.
‘Caring for someone can be physically and emotionally demanding, so ensure you take breaks, seek support from other carers or professional networks, and maintain your health. This balance will enable you to provide sustained, high-quality care.’
She also emphasises the holistic nature of the caring role, adding, ‘As a carer your role is not just about meeting physical needs but also providing emotional support, fostering independence, and enhancing the overall quality of life for the person in your care.’
Carer Stories
Do You Have A Story To Tell?
You are welcome to write your story yourself or simply answer the questions below, which we will use to write your story for you. Not all stories will be chosen for the website. However, with your permission, we may share your story in future campaigns, policy and advocacy work.
- Topic: My carer story
- Length: No longer than 400 words
- Format: Type your story in an email or a Word document, addressing the following:
- What can you tell us about your caring journey?
- Are there particular challenges you face in your role?
- Do you have any advice or tips you’d share with a new carer? - Need inspiration? See other stories that have been written here.
- Submission process: Please email your story to eBulletin@carersvictoria.org.au
- What if your story is chosen? Your story will be edited and returned to you to make sure you are happy with the final version before it is published on our website. We may also ask for accompanying images to be shared with your permission.
If you have any questions, please email: eBulletin@carersvictoria.org.au
We look forward to hearing more about your experience as a carer.
