A carer provides unpaid care to a family member or friend who has a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness, addiction or is an older person with care needs.
Everybody knows somebody who cares.
A carer may not choose to become a carer; it can be something that life chooses for them.
Carers Victoria is a not-for-profit organisation providing advice, information and support to unpaid carers to improve their health, wellbeing, capacity and resilience. They also offer tailored services for young people (aged up to 25) who are in a caring role.
The organisation operates a number of state-wide services which are available to help carers navigate the different challenges they may face.
Scott spoke about the particular difficulties that COVID-19 has caused this year, making the life of many carers even more challenging.
It’s good to know there are services available to help carers – but finding out about them is not always easy.
The experienced staff of Carers Victoria listen and help carers and potential carers navigate the various supports available in their caring role.
Carers Victoria also connect carers of all ages to a range of services, including:
• support services
• counselling
• funding opportunities
• carer education, and
• respite services.
Further information can be found the website www.carersvictoria.org.au
Linda mentioned that in the early days of fund-raising for Carers Victoria, the Club Sponsored a day at the Mornington Races with the feature event being the Carers Victoria Handicap.
Following Scotts presentation there were a number of questions demonstrating members interest in this very worthwhile charity.
Scott Walker, CEO Carers Victoria on Zoom