People across NSW are being reminded of the essential role carers play in the community, this National Carers Week (from 13 October 2024 to 19 October 2024).
Health Minister Ryan Park thanked the nearly one million carers in NSW who provide ongoing unpaid support to a family member or friend with dedication and compassion.
Carers across NSW provide 11.8 million hours of care per week, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This year’s theme ‘Millions of Reasons to Care’, shines a light on their work.
In the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, a range of events have been scheduled to celebrate and support the region’s carers, including an information stall at Wollongong Hospital (from 14 October 2024 to 16 October 2024).
The stall will provide information to people visiting Wollongong Hospital as well as the many staff who also work as unpaid carers.
The District’s staff will be available each day to answer questions about local carer support services, as well as services available more broadly, such as the Commonwealth Government’s Carer Gateway.
The Carers Week events are in addition to a range of emotional and practical supports available throughout the year, including a series of Carer Education Workshops and information sessions held across the District.
Further information on the District’s Carer Program can be found online via the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Ryan Park:
“Unpaid carers play an important role in supporting family members, friends and loved ones who are living with illness, disability, mental health conditions or aging-related challenges."
"Carers are the backbone of our communities. Every day, thousands of people across the state give selflessly, ensuring the most vulnerable members of our society receive the support, care and dignity they deserve.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully:
"Wholehearted thanks to the unpaid carers for the valuable role they play in enabling many people to remain living in their homes and communities."
“This week is an opportunity to inform people and raise awareness about the diversity of carers and their roles and help people find the supports available to them.”
Quotes attributable to ISLHD Carer Program Co-ordinator Kellie Sale:
“Carers often juggle their own personal commitments, other family members, careers, and wellbeing while providing care, which can be both physically and emotionally demanding."
“For people to be able to care for someone else, they also need to make sure they are looking after themselves, so we encourage carers to access the supports available."
“The District hosts education workshops with practical advice for carers every year. The workshops cover topics including accessing support and services, forward planning, and health and wellbeing.’’