A call to celebrate carers

AS National Carers Week approaches, Victorians are encouraged to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of unpaid carers to support family members and friends experiencing illness, disability, mental health conditions and ageing-related needs.

The celebration runs from Sunday 12 to Saturday 18 October, and some key Victorian landmarks will be lit up in Carers Victoria’s blue, white and red colours.

In regional Victoria, the Conservatory in Bendigo’s Rosalind Park will light up as a mark of respect, while in Melbourne, Flinders Street Station, AAMI Park, Rod Laver Arena and the Bolte Bridge will be illuminated.

There are more than 750,000 unpaid carers throughout Victoria who provide emotional, physical and practical support without financial compensation.

Carers Victoria CEO Judith Abbott said the week is about highlighting the critical work of carers and to ensure they are seen, heard and supported.

“But carers often feel unrecognised,” she said. “Carers Victoria wants to change that, and this national carers week, we want everyone to care for a carer by reaching out to a person they know who is a carer to see how they’re travelling and what you can do to help.

“Every carer is different, but we need to recognise them and the important work they do.”

Community members are encouraged to reach out to carers, host a workplace morning tea, share National Carers Week resources, and share information on social media.

For more information, visit the Carers Victoria website.