In the words of a carer: Narelle's story
"All the carers out there, keep plugging away. You've got to keep advocating for the one you love. Pat yourself on the back, because you're doing a great job..." (Narelle, carer)
Who are carers?
Carers are people who provide ongoing unpaid support to people who need it because of disability, chronic illness, mental illness, drug or alcohol dependency, dementia, or frail age.
There are over 850,000 carers in NSW. This includes people of different cultural backgrounds, ages, religions, genders and sexual orientations.
What do carers do?
A carer’s tasks will depend on the needs of the person they care for. Every situation is different. Your caring tasks might include:
- preparing meals
- helping the person to wash themselves
- helping the person to get dressed
- helping the person to take their medication
- scheduling medical appointments and going with the person
- helping the person with banking and paying their bills
- doing grocery shopping
- providing emotional support
- assisting with housework.
How do I get info and support as a carer?
Caring for someone you love can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. At times, you might feel lonely, stressed and overwhelmed. So, it’s important that you get the support you need.
Australian Carer Gateway
Emotional, practical and financial support for carers. Including online forum, counselling, planned respite info, skills courses and self-guided coaching, financial information on carer payments, cards, concessions.
Call 1800 422 737 during business hours or access the site anytime.
Service NSW
Information specific to carers in NSW, including:
- accessing services and programs in NSW
- accessing financial help via payments, concessions, professional financial advice and rebates.
Carers NSW
The peak non-government organisation for carers in NSW. Providing information, education and training, resources and referrals to support carers in NSW.
Call Carers NSW on (02) 9280 4744 (9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday) or access the site anytime.