'The Voice' Blog March 2024

CEO Message

Greetings from Carers Victoria!

A lot of the content in this month’s edition of the Voice focuses on the work Carers Victoria is doing to reach more carers, particularly across rural and regional Victoria. As we continue our efforts to support carers across the state, I would like to highlight some key developments.

Carers Victoria warmly welcomed the Allan Government’s announcement in late 2023 that Carers Victoria would receive funding to deliver respite for carers not just in Melbourne’s West but also in the regions of Geelong, Bendigo/Shepparton, and the Latrobe Valley. Read on to hear more about what is planned. The Carers Victoria Board has also established a new governance role, Carer Advisor to the Board, and in coming months you will see the inaugural advisor, Helen Johnson, listening to the voices of carers across the state and sharing this directly with the Board.

We continue to run a range of statewide programs and I am pleased to announce that applications for one of these, the Young Carers Scholarship Program, are now open for 2024. If you're a young carer currently attending secondary school in Victoria, or know someone who is, we encourage you to apply. Details are in the newsletter.

And, the Carer Wellbeing Survey is now open and if you can spare the time, we’d love you to complete the survey – the data collected through it is really valuable to support our awareness raising and advocacy efforts on behalf of all carers.

Thank you for the critical work you do in your role as a carer – the state couldn’t run without you!

Stay well, Judith

Highlighting Female Carers This International Women’s Day

As we approach International Women's Day on Friday 8 March, let's take a moment to honour the remarkable women who selflessly dedicate their lives to caring for others. At Carers Victoria, we recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of carers, who often go unnoticed in their tireless efforts to support loved ones in need.

From mothers caring for children with disabilities to daughters looking after ageing parents, women play a pivotal role in the caregiving landscape. Their dedication, resilience, and unconditional love make a profound difference in the lives of those they care for and in our communities.

This International Women's Day, let's shine a spotlight on these extraordinary carers, applauding their strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment. With the theme for International Women’s Day 2024 to inspire inclusion, we continue to work together to inspire other to understand and value women’s inclusion where we celebrate diversity and empowerment, not only on Friday 8 March, but every day.

Together, let's advocate for greater support, recognition, and empowerment for all caregivers, ensuring they receive the respect, resources, and appreciation they truly deserve.

Join us at Carers Victoria as we celebrate the resilience and spirit of women caregivers everywhere. Together, we can create a world where caregiving is recognised, valued, and supported.

Young Carers Scholarship Is On In 2024

We are happy to announce that the Young Carer Scholarship program is back in 2024.

Carers Victoria's Young Carer Scholarship program gives young carers attending secondary school the opportunity to be acknowledged for their contributions to their family and the community and to participate in school or community-based activities that enhance their skills, educational achievement and abilities, or that help them to participate more fully in their community.

Applications are now open!

Applications close: Thursday 18 April 2024.

Scholarships of up to $500 are awarded to successful applicants.

Carers Australia Carer Wellbeing Survey 2024

Carers Australia has partnered with the University of Canberra to conduct a national survey into the wellbeing of carers and their support services.

If you or anyone you know is a carer – whether your caring role is big or small, long-term or short-term, current or past – Carers Australia would love to hear more. Please complete the 2024 Carer Wellbeing Survey and you can enter a draw to win a gift card.

Your feedback will be used to strengthen carer advocacy and shape national policy about the current wellbeing experiences of carers, and how support can be improved for carers across Australia.

The survey is voluntary, confidential and anonymous. 

It’s Time To Mingle

We proudly present our Mingles for 2024.

Mingles continue to be an important part of our events calendar and we know you love to join in.

For carers not familiar with Mingle, they’re an opportunity for carers to take a break, be entertained and enjoy a delicious meal.

Mingles are also a wonderful opportunity for carers to catch up with other local carers and Carers Victoria staff, as well as find out about services and support in their area.

Young Carers Are Invited To A Family Picnic In Ballarat!

Carers Victoria has joined forces with Little Dreamers to host a free Ballarat Family Picnic for young carers and family members on Wednesday 10 April, from 1.00pm to 5.00pm.

Come along to Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground during the school holidays for an afternoon of food, games and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

There is also an opportunity to connect with a range of local support services to help young carers in their carer journey.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Different Journeys In Bendigo: Empowering Carers In Rural Communities

Servicing in and around Bendigo, a dedicated initiative is emerging to address the unique challenges faced by carers in rural and regional areas, particularly those caring for individuals within neurodiverse and autistic communities. Different Journeys, an organisation committed to fostering understanding and support for diverse caring needs, is spearheading a transformative project: Bendigo Carers - A Different Journey.

The primary aim of A Different Journey is to provide essential support to isolated, diverse, and at-risk carers in Bendigo and surrounding areas. Recognising the often-overlooked needs of this demographic, the program offers a multifaceted approach to empowerment and connection.

Peer support gatherings

At the core of the initiative, are peer support carer gatherings held in community venues. These gatherings serve as vital hubs for carers to connect with others facing similar challenges and to access the trained carer peer support team. Whether seeking information about available services or requiring support to articulate their needs effectively to service providers, carers find a supportive environment tailored to their requirements.

Teen support dinners

Understanding the complexities of caregiving responsibilities, Different Journeys ensures that carers can participate by holding events concurrently with teen support dinners. This thoughtful scheduling allows carers to attend while ensuring the needs of the individuals they care for are also met.

Carer’s cuppa drop-in sessions

In addition to structured gatherings, A Different Journey also provides ‘Carer's Cuppa’ drop-in sessions in community settings such as libraries and neighbourhood houses. These informal gatherings offer information and connection in a relaxed atmosphere, allowing carers to seek support as needed.

Blokes support program

Recognising the unique challenges faced by isolated and at-risk rural men, the initiative includes a specialised ‘Blokes’ support program. Tailored to engage this demographic, the program ensures that all carers, regardless of gender, receive the support they require.

Inclusive peer support

To further enhance inclusivity, Different Journeys engages queer peer-support staff. This decision is rooted in the understanding that more than 30% of autistic individuals from the LGBTIQ+ community and many have non-binary gender identities. By prioritising diversity in its support team, the organisation ensures that every carer receives empathetic and understanding assistance.

Evidence-based approach

Central to the success of A Different Journey is its evidence-based approach. Each element of the program has been rigorously tested and designed specifically for rural and regional settings. By leveraging proven methodologies, the initiative maximises its impact on carer health and wellbeing while fostering stronger connections within communities.

CatholicCare Victoria's Connecting Carers Initiative In Bendigo

CatholicCare Victoria is proud to introduce its latest initiative, Connecting Carers, aimed at fostering stronger connections and support networks for carers across various communities in and around Bendigo. With a focus on innovation, creativity, and holistic wellbeing, this project endeavours to provide respite and rejuvenation for carers, enhancing their quality of life while sustaining their vital caregiving roles.

The core objective of Connecting Carers is to address the prevalent issue of isolation among carers, particularly within marginalised communities such as LGBTQIA+ and CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) groups, including young CALD carers. By offering safe and inclusive spaces for these individuals to connect, share experiences, and access support, we aim to reduce loneliness, foster peer relationships, and empower carers to navigate their caregiving journey with greater resilience and confidence.

In collaboration with local communities in Bendigo, Loddon, Ballarat, and Hepburn shires, this project will offer a diverse range of activities tailored to the unique needs and preferences of carers. From retreats and camps to yoga sessions and social gatherings like morning teas and luncheons, each activity is designed to promote relaxation, socialisation, and personal fulfillment. Importantly, carers will have the opportunity to voice their needs and preferences, ensuring that our offerings align closely with their aspirations and requirements.

Connecting Carers also seeks to bridge the gap in service provision for LGBTQIA+ and CALD carers, addressing the specific challenges they face in accessing support and maintaining social connections. Through initiatives such as rest and relaxation retreats for LGBTQIA+ carers and culturally relevant activities for CALD communities, they aim to create inclusive environments where every individual feels valued, respected, and understood.

For young CALD carers, school holiday social activities and outings such as beach visits, rock climbing, and movie nights provide opportunities for fun and peer bonding, offering a reprieve from their caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, weekly morning teas and lunch events at neighbourhood houses offer CALD community carers a chance to connect with their local community, while culturally appropriate activities like swimming lessons and language support services ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

Connecting Carers is not just about providing temporary relief; it's about building enduring connections and empowering carers to access ongoing support and resources within their communities. By facilitating these meaningful connections and equipping carers with the tools they need to navigate their caregiving journey, we aim to enhance the overall wellbeing and resilience of carers across Victoria.

Carer Story

Meet Christina

For Christina, 61, a veteran carer, the last 30 years, has been daunting, challenging and overwhelming.

This is her carer’s story.

“I didn’t even know that I was a carer and I fought the stigma of being labelled ‘a carer’ for many years. I saw myself as just a mum with a difficult son."

“He was 10 when our troubles began and it escalated as he got older. We now know this was because of an undiagnosed mental illness. Back then, single parent families were stigmatised by professionals!"

“He was diagnosed in his 20’s, with a complicated mental illness."

“For the last 30 years, I have fought for my son to live as normal a life as possible. When his doctors said that he needed full time residential care, I took him home and cared for him until he could care for himself."

“He is now living independently."

“So fierce was my ability to fight for my son, I extended a three-month service into six years of support for us."

“My son has played a large part in his own recovery.”

“There are so many stories, I decided to write a book about our journey. Scheduled to be launched, during Carers Week 2024, it talks about my caring role, blow by blow, but it also carries my son’s voice, he has agreed to co-author the book and tell his side of the story as he remembers it and it is not what you would expect!"

“As a highly trained Life Coach, I have weaved experience and wisdom into each chapter to help carers facing similar circumstances.”

Christina’s days as a carer are certainly not typical or ordinary, and thankfully, they are a lot better these days.

“When my son was unwell, his hospital admissions were frequent, especially during Christmas and New Year."

“His last hospital admissions was 12 years ago, and he spent more than six months in and out of hospital, finally agreeing to come home with me. It has been a long battle, but I am thankful to say that things are finally turning around. We are hoping that he will have the strength to continue to remain well."

“Obtaining support has been particularly challenging, but extremely critical for Christina and her son. Firstly, there was no support, and no one called anyone a carer. I had to fight and advocate for my son, on my own, my family decided that I was being a drama queen because when they saw him, he was fine, that’s the problem with unseen illnesses."

“I fought to get him onto the NDIS and he fought me back, when he went into rehab all services stopped, including NDIS AND my Carers Pension! Just before Covid hit, he was asked to leave because he was caught smoking cigarettes. I became his primary carer, worker, assistant, you name it for the whole of covid, all services shut down, and he fell off the system, and he sat in his little bungalow drinking. It was an extremely stressful time.”

For Christina, the daily financial and emotional struggles are overwhelming.

“I am so sick of struggling on the carers pension I am desperately trying to change that paradigm, we want to buy groceries that we want and once a year pay for a holiday to a place of our choosing. I feel like that is not too much to ask?”

If Christina could describe what it is like to be a carer in three words, it would be an ‘Angel Without Wings.’ “Carers are extraordinary humans.”

Christina’s business “Coaching The Artist Way” is building a “Brave & Unstoppable” community to serve carers, an online platform empowering carers to thrive.

Carer Stories

Do You Have A Story To Tell?

You are welcome to write your story yourself or answer these questions, which we will use to write your story for you. Not all stories will be chosen for the website.

• Topic: My carer story
• Length: No longer than 400 words
• Format: Type your story in an email or a Word document, or type your answers to the questions in this document. 
• 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.

If you have any questions, please email: eBulletin@carersvictoria.org.au 

We look forward to hearing your carer story! 

Carer Support Group at Lynbrook

One of our valued Carer Support Groups, Friendly Carers Group, aims to encourage and support carers to participate in community activities, so they receive much-needed respite from their caring role.

Caring roles can sometimes be lonely and staying connected becomes essential to one’s wellbeing.

Building and nurturing positive relationships and expanding your social networks create a sense of belonging, strengthen community, and reduce loneliness.

Carers come together to enjoy a cuppa during morning tea and catch up on daily life. There are other activities, including art classes. Peer Support is also available, as are referrals to various other services.

Regular information sessions take place from various associated carer service organisations that can provide support to our carers.

Contact Marie Kouroulis - Peer Support friendlycarers1@gmail.com to find out more.

They catch up on the last Friday of the month, from 11.00am to 2.00pm at Lynbrook Community Centre 2, Harris St Lynbrook.

Become a Member and Stay Connected

Become a member of Carers Victoria and join our community to help us make a difference in the lives of Victorian carers.

Membership is free and open to carers, former carers, supporters and Carer Support Groups.

Membership benefits include:

• Exclusive invitations to events including our popular Mingle events, 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 including Hoyts movie tickets, Accor accommodation and Live Life Foods pre-packaged meals.
• Free sign up for individuals.

Competition

Flight Centre

Dreaming of an idyllic country getaway, a sunny beach for a long weekend or a city adventure? Our latest competition could help kickstart your holiday plans!

One lucky carer has the chance to WIN a $1500 Flight Centre gift card, which is redeemable at participating Flight Centre retail stores located within Australia.

Don’t miss your chance to WIN!

The competition closes at midnight 31 March 2024.

Fundraising

A Chance To Win With The Lottery

It is the final days for the popular Play for Purpose lottery where you could be in the running for a once-in-a-lifetime first prize - $250,000 worth of gold bullion!

By participating in The Play for Purpose lottery, you can win one of the amazing prizes and help raise money for Victorian carers.

At only $10 a ticket, there are 395 prizes up for grabs, including a 2nd prize JB Hi-Fi voucher worth $15,000*, a 3rd prize Travel Associates voucher worth $7,500, a 4th prize a JB Hi-Fi voucher valued at $5,000 and a 5th prize Woolworths gift voucher worth $2,500.

The raffle closes Thursday 14 March 2024 with huge draw announcements made on Friday 15 March 2024.

You have to be in it to win it! Good luck!

*Should a resident outside of Victoria be drawn, the prize will be a VISA gift voucher.

What’s On At Carers Victoria

We know and appreciate that your responsibilities and how you face your day is different from carer to carer. Some carers prefer to attend events during the day or the evening, with some carers only able to join in online.

In 2024, we have created a mix of interesting, insightful and entertaining offerings to meet those different needs: from the highly successful Western Programs brunch groups, online support services workshops to pathway to carers catch ups, Carers Victoria continues to curate opportunities for carers to learn and connect.

Find out what’s happening:
 

Featured Events For Carers In Melbourne’s West

Carers Victoria receives government funding specifically for carers who live in the local government areas of Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melbourne, Melton, Moonee Valley and Wyndham. If you are a carer living in one of these council areas, these two experiences might be up your alley!

FREE African Drumming in Sunshine

Hosted by Kofi Drumming, these sessions provide a unique blend of drumming, percussion, rhythm, and connection with fellow carers.

Date: Every third Thursday of each month until November 2024
Time: 10.00am – 12.00pm

FREE Gentle Exercise Sessions in Sunshine

These sessions are tailored for stress relief, improved flexibility, wellbeing, and connection with fellow carers.

Date: Recurring the fourth Thursday of every month until November 2024
Time: 11.30am – 12.15pm

Caring For Someone With Incontinence Online Workshops

As a carer, do you ever stand in the supermarket and wonder how to select the most suitable incontinence product for your loved one?

Have you also ever wondered if there is any funding assistance available?

If so, this free online session is for you.

Jacqui Micallef, from Kimberly Clark, a company that manufactures incontinence products, will be talking about a suite of topics that may provide you with all the answers you need. This includes:

• How to choose the correct products for the person you care for
• The difference between Sanitary products and Continence Products
• Navigating through all different types of Continence Aids and the absorbency levels
• Where to get assistance
• $500 available in funding through the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS)
• The importance of Skin Care to prevent skin problems.

There are two online sessions to choose from, Wednesday 20 March at 7.00pm or Tuesday 26 March at 12.00pm.

For All Carers In Bendigo

We are heading your way with a handful of free events and activities on Monday 22 April and Tuesday 23 April 2024.

First up, we have Carer Connections on Monday 22 April, from 11.30am, where carers can enjoy a light meal and plenty of conversation with other carers.

The following day, there is a workshop at 10.00am where you can discover more about your local support services. That evening, at 6.00pm is another Carer Connections.

We will continue to visit other regions of Victoria for support, connection and conversation.

Calling All Carers In The North Western Metro Region Of Melbourne 

Carer Wellbeing and Connection – Online Groups are now open for registrations.

We know that people who provide care for a loved one often experience loneliness and can feel isolated. If this sounds familiar, the Online Carer Wellbeing and Connection program may be right for you. In response to requests, we are also offering some specialised groups;

• Carers of someone on the Autism Spectrum
• Carers of someone experiencing Mental Health Issues
• Bereaved Carers who have lost the person they cared for

It consists of a series of four online therapeutic group sessions designed to help you better understand connectedness and personal wellbeing.

Ask An Expert: Webinar Series For Community Inclusion

Neighbourhood Houses Victoria is proud to present a series of webinars to promote inclusion of disadvantaged groups in local communities. They are a great way to ask your burning questions, connect with and learn from others, find out about opportunities for greater inclusion and get updates on the roll out Neighbourhood Carers Clubs. Everyone is welcome to attend these FREE online sessions.

Webinars are scheduled every month until December 2024.

Empowering Carers – Planning For Your Future Information Session

As a carer, are you prepared for the road ahead? As we journey through life, it's essential to plan for the future, especially when it comes to our financial and healthcare needs as we age. To assist you on this vital journey, Home Instead Melbourne Outer North East is delighted to invite you to a free event.

Event details

Date: Tuesday 19 March 2024
Time: 11.00am – 1.00pm
Venue: Home Instead Melbourne Outer North East - Unit 3, 18 Sherbourne Road, Briar Hill
RSVP: Contact (03) 9439 6676 or email jackie.taylor@homeinsteadmon.com.au

Hosted by Karen Conte, Managing Director of Home Instead Melbourne Outer North East, and Synthia Sekar, Senior Financial Aged Care Adviser, this informative session promises invaluable insights.

What to expect:

• Expert Guidance - Benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experience offered by our specialists in financial planning and aged care
• Tailored advice - Receive personalized advice and strategies to help you navigate the complexities of financial and healthcare planning.
• Interactive session - Engage with our speakers, ask questions, and gain clarity on crucial aspects of planning for your future
• Networking opportunity - Connect with like-minded individuals and share experiences in a supportive environment

Why attend?

Planning for the future can often seem daunting, but with the right guidance and support, it can become less stressful.  As a carer, this session equips you with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions.

Join us

Secure your spot at this essential event and take proactive steps towards a secure and fulfilling future. Light lunch and refreshments will be provided, ensuring an enjoyable and informative experience for all attendees.

Future Reset – Maker Space

Arts Access Victoria is running a year of free creative workshops for young deaf and disabled people aged 18-25 years.

If you are a carer of a loved one whose health has been impacted by their work or studies, this may be a lovely outlet for them.

This is a safe space for making art, socialising and creating community with your peers. Workshops in visual and digital arts, professional development and free studio time, led by Deaf and Disabled artists. All workshops are Auslan interpreted. Join Arts Access Victoria in person on Saturdays in Melbourne CBD, and online on Wednesday evenings from March to November 2024.

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 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 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.

Carers have expressed that they would like to hear more about job opportunities, and we have heard you. As part of our role to support carers, we have included a Jobs Board which will operate as a convenient and easy-to-use platform for you to explore employment opportunities that are relevant to you and across various geographic locations.

Accor

Accor has created a recruitment program called “Work Your Way”, which offers multiple employment opportunities across Victoria that are flexible for carers.