SUPPORT FOR CARERS

A carer is someone who gives up their time to help another person who is unable to care completely for him or herself. A carer can be a family member, a friend and/or neighbour. The person who takes the main responsibility is called a primary carer.

When you are providing care and support for someone receiving palliative care, you are often increasing their opportunities to live life to the fullest even though their future is uncertain. People living with a terminal illness who have a carer tend to spend less time in hospital than someone who does not.

Looking after yourself when you are caring for someone is very important, not only for your own sake, but also because it will sustain you to continue to provide the ongoing support for someone else. Providing care can be emotionally distressing and very tiring, we encourage carers to acknowledge this and to seek support for themselves.

PHS is very aware of the need to care for the carer and holds regular sessions specifically for carers and families as they provide care for a person registed with PHS. This provides carers the opportunity to gather with others in a similar situation to access information and strengthen supports.

"It's a relief to find out about supports for things that have been on my mind".

Client Care Volunteers also offer support to carers, allowing them the opportunity to take some time out when needed.

Contact PHS for further information.

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