Taking care of carers

IN Home Hospice Care Inc (IHHCare) has recently launched ‘Caring Conversations’, a free emotional support program for unpaid carers across the Lower South East, proudly funded by the Sisters of Charity Foundation.

This funding enables IHHCare to provide dedicated one-on-one counselling, peer catch-ups, and group support sessions for people caring for loved ones with serious, chronic, or life-limiting illnesses at home.

For many local carers, emotional support is difficult to access due to distance, cost, and the lack of suitable rural services. Caring Conversations aims to change that.

IHHCare counsellor Glenny Tiller said the grant will make a genuine difference for families in the region.

“Carers give so much of themselves every day,” Glenny said. “Many are exhausted, isolated, and carrying an enormous emotional load behind closed doors. Thanks to the Sisters of Charity Foundation, we can now provide the compassionate, accessible support they deserve — right here in their own community.”

The program will offer one-on-one counselling sessions, monthly peer catch-ups, and specialised workshops to help carers strengthen resilience, reduce stress, and feel less alone.

Delivered by a qualified grief and loss counsellor, the service is free, confidential, and available to carers across the Limestone Coast.

IHHCare manager Sandi Elliott welcomed the opportunity to expand support for local families.

“This program responds to the growing need in the region,” Sandi said. “Carers often carry an enormous emotional load, and many do so quietly and alone. We are grateful to the Sisters of Charity Foundation for recognising the importance of caring for the carer.”

The Sisters of Charity Foundation supports grassroots organisations providing hope, dignity, and practical assistance where it is needed most. Their investment in Caring Conversations will have an immediate and meaningful impact on carer wellbeing throughout 2026.

The first peer support group session will commence on Thursday, March 12, from 1pm to 4pm, in the Member Room at the Community RSL and will continue on the second Thursday of each month.

All unpaid carers in the community are welcome to attend.

Carers, health professionals, and community groups seeking more information or wishing to make a referral can contact IHHCare via email [email protected] or mobile 0437 246 484