NEW LOCAL ACTIVITIES TO BETTER SUPPORT CARERS
Friday, 14 February 2020
Carers living in Evelyn and Gembrook will have more opportunities to be healthy, active and well thanks to a $1 million package of grants from the Andrews Labor Government.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced that the following community organisations will receive grants as part of the package to improve the health and wellbeing of carers.
| Organisation | Project Description | Amount Received |
| Spectrum Journeys Inc | Build on current programs such as carer Yoga to equip participants with self-care skills, extend Dads Connect Groups to run additional groups for men who are often overlooked for carer support and provide small group workshops to equip carers with skills to support their children and mental health. | $17,100 |
| Taskforce Community Agency Inc | A carer support group will be established at the Cockatoo Community House, which will focus on self-care and well-being for carers. The group will run monthly, supported by professional counsellors and well-being teachers. first activities will be a collage workshop where participants create content for a 2020 calendar that will remind them of upcoming carer get-togethers and provide inspiration throughout the year, between the monthly get-togethers. | $4,410 |
Across the state 94 community organisations and groups are receiving grants to support carers to be physically and mentally healthy, socially active and better connected with other carers, support programs and resources.
The new Supporting Carers Locally Grants Program will focus on support for carers in regional areas, as well as under-recognised groups such as young carers.
More than 736,600 Victorian carers give their time and effort to look after a family member or friend who needs them. It can be difficult for carers to access the services they need to look after themselves and make sure they’re supported in their care role.
The Labor Government is investing almost $50 million to help carers with extra respite, transport concessions and grants to support local initiatives.
Supporting the health and wellbeing of carers is a key priority of the Victorian carer strategy 2018–22 – the first whole-of-government strategy recognising carers.
Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
“Often the best source of information and support for carers is other carers. These grants will give them greater emotional support and connect them with other people dealing with the same challenges.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“We’re very proud to fund these fantastic local support groups and initiatives to help make sure carers get the support they need and have asked for.”