Hunter New England carer support program

Our carer support program helps provide information and useful information to carers.

A young woman supporting an elderly lady

Think Patient, Think Carer

Anyone, anytime, can be a carer.

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About our carer support program 

If you are new or very experienced in the caring role, a health professional working with carers, an employee of the health service balancing work and caring, or a health service manager wishing to conduct a quality exercise for carers, our carer support program can assist you with useful information and links.

A carer provides ongoing, unpaid support to a family member, neighbour or friend who needs help because of disability, terminal illness, chronic illness, mental illness and/or ageing.

Anyone can be a carer, including partners, parents, friends, siblings, neighbours and children.

Supporting families and carers is pivotal to achieving strong outcomes in healthcare. The aim of our carer support program is to create a carer culture within the Hunter New England Local Health District.

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Call Carer Gateway

Carer Gateway is an Australian Government initiative. It is a free service designed by carers for carers.

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Video transcript

Call Carer Gateway

Carer Gateway is a free service designed by carers, for carers. 

But many carers don't ask for help. 

They might now know it's available, think it's too hard to access, or maybe afraid to be seen as not managing by asking for help.

But asking for support is a good way to avoid burning out.

If you're an unpaid carer, you might be eligible for a tailored support package, which is based on your unique caring situation.

This could include respite care, equipment to support your studies, or help with cooking, cleaning and travel.

And it's as simple as calling Carer Gateway, then pressing option one.

You'll speak to a local service provider who will chat through some questions about your individual caring situation. 

The questions might cover your health, your caring role, and how you're feeling, so a quiet space can be best.

Make the call today on 1800 422 737, or request a call back on our website at carergateway.gov.au

Parent and Carer advocacy

As a carer you play an essential role in advocating for you loved one's health and wellbeing. 

The information in this section can help you speak up for yourself and your loved ones, become a stronger advocate and get help with speaking up.

Build skills and get support to self-advocate

If you find it difficult to speak up or want to get better at advocating for your loved one (your child or family member), you can build this capacity. 

You can strengthen your ability to self-advocate, which means learning how to stand up for your loved one's needs, including:

  • Educating yourself about their condition and treatment options.
  • Learning about their rights and entitlements. 
  • Building relationships with their healthcare professionals.
  • Connecting with other families with similar conditions.
  • Practising communication skills like being assertive, active listening, and negotiation.
  • Seeking support from advocacy organisation, support groups or counselling services.  

Organisations like Carer Gateway and Kindred offer many resources and supports, including coaching and online lessons to help parents and caregivers to build their skills, including advocacy.

You are always encouraged to speak up if you have any concerns about your loved one's health. They have the right to be heard and listened to. Learn more about raising concerns using the REACH system.

Advocacy organisations

Resources for carers and staff

Related information

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