“Even the smallest act of caring for another person is like a drop of water -it will make ripples throughout the entire pond.” Jessy and Bryan Matteo

Who is a carer?

• A carer is someone who provides ongoing (unpaid) care to someone with a chronic health condition, disability, mental illness or who is frail

• A carer may or may not live with the person they care for

• They could be a family member, friend or even a neighbour

The Carers Recognition Act 2004

• This legislation was developed with the aim of greater inclusion of the family carer in the health and disability system.

• This Act applies to WA Health including public hospitals, the Disability Services Commission and organisations funded by these agencies.

• A key part of the Act is The Carers Charter.

Carer Wellbeing

Australian Unity Wellbeing Index Survey 17.a, Report 17.1 October 2007, Deakin University.

www.deakin.edu.au/research/acqul/index_wellbeing/index.htm

.

The Carers Charter1. Carers must be treated with respect and

dignity.

2. The role of carers must be recognised by including carers in the assessment, planning, delivery and review of services that impact on them and the role of carers.

3. The views and needs of carers must be taken into account along with the views, needs and best interests of people receiving care when decisions are made that impact on carers and the role of carers.

4. Complaints made by carers in relation to services that impact on them and the role of carers must be given due attention and consideration.

How do we support carers?

Services are free and intended to guide and support carers in their

caring role.

Counselling

• Phone 1800 007 332 8am – 5pm, Monday - Friday (except public holidays)

• In person Metro and Regional Locations• Email - chat@carerswa.asn.au• Skype

Advisory

Free advice and referral to supports.

Social and Peer Support

• Linking Together activities• Men’s/Multicultural/Younger female groups• Pamper days/Family movies/Cultural

events• Short Breaks program

Anne Bluntish Retreat

An apartment in South Perth offering a well deserved break!

Prepare to Care Hospital Program

• Health staff education• Resources for carers• Carer workshops

Education

• Workshops• Practical Matters Forums• Service Provider Orientation

Young Carers Program

• Awareness in schools• Social support• Guided referrals

Better Start Program

Early intervention funding for children with disabilities

Carer Participation and Representation

Carers having a voice to make positive change

Policy & Systemic Advocacy

Carers WA consults with family and friend carers on key strategic issues

Newsletters and E-Bulletins

Keep up to date!

How to Contact UsInformation Contact Details

General Enquiries 1300 227 377

Counselling 1800 242 636

Email Counselling chat@carerswa.asn.au

Web www.carerswa.asn.au

Young Carers Web www.youngcarerswa.asn.au

Email info@carerswa.asn.au

To refer carers referral@carerswa.asn.au

Address 182 Lord Street, PERTH 6000

Facebook Carers WA and Young People who Care - Carers WA