stephanie fewster from carers wa
DESCRIPTION
Stephanie Fewster from Carers WA presented on how her organisation supports many of the 300,000 carers in Western AustraliaTRANSCRIPT
“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 - [email protected]• 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 [email protected]
Web www.carerswa.asn.au
Young Carers Web www.youngcarerswa.asn.au
Email [email protected]
To refer carers [email protected]
Address 182 Lord Street, PERTH 6000
Facebook Carers WA and Young People who Care - Carers WA