Carers are more than twice as likely as other Australians to have low levels of wellbeing, so it is important to boost awareness and support for them, a fact underlined by the Federal government’s push to raise awareness of Carer Gateway – a free support program for 2.65 million carers nationwide.
Federal Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said many carers did not know what support was available to help them personally – or even recognise themselves as carers – instead focusing on services for their family member or friend.
“Each of us may become a carer at any point in our lives.
“Carer Gateway is a critical early-intervention service to support people before they reach crisis point,” Minister Rishworth said.
LiveBetter is the lead Carer Gateway service provider in the NSW Central West, Western and Murrumbidgee regions, and is delivering services and supports including counselling, emergency respite, skills courses, tailored support packages, and coaching for carers in these areas.
Chief Executive Officer of LiveBetter, Natalie Forsyth-Stock, says, “With the tagline ‘Help for those who might never ask,’ the national Carer Gateway campaign emphasises that looking after others can be rewarding but tough, and it’s okay to reach out and ask for support.
“The campaign prompts a very important question – ‘If you’re looking after a loved one, who’s looking after you?’
“It’s great to see real carers talking about the benefits of Carer Gateway, how it helped them and how it can help others. I believe this national campaign will encourage more carers to reach out for the support they need before reaching crisis point.”
To find out more, call 1800 422 737 or visit CarerGateway.gov.au
