Training opportunity for carers

MOUNT Gambier In Home Hospice Care Inc (IHHCare) is proud to announce the expansion of its Practical Skills for Caregivers program, thanks to generous funding from the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR). This vital support enables the free education program to reach carers not only in Mount Gambier but also in Port MacDonnell, Penola, Millicent, and surrounding communities.

Caring for a loved one at home in their final days can be one of life’s most meaningful experiences, but also one that is physically and emotionally challenging. Recognizing the need for practical, hands-on support, IHHCare developed this free Carer Education Program to equip caregivers with essential skills and confidence in providing care at home.

Delivered over three weekly sessions, each approximately 1 to 1.5 hours long, the program covers:

• What it means to be a carer

• Accessing local support services

• Carer and patient wellbeing

• Managing symptoms such as nausea and pain

• Understanding and managing medications

• Assisting with hygiene and skin care

• Providing safe mobility assistance

• Infection prevention and hand hygiene

“Many people wish to spend their final days in the familiarity and comfort of home, surrounded by familiar places and familiar faces,” said Sandi Elliott, Manager of IHHCare. “This program empowers caregivers to make that possible. With the support of FRRR, we’re now able to take this vital training into rural communities where access is limited.”

Local clinical educator and registered nurse Heidi Rose, who helped develop the program, will facilitate the sessions. Participation is free, but registration is essential, as each workshop is capped at 8 participants to allow for practical learning and discussion.

Upcoming Workshops – Dates & Locations

Mount Gambier – Group Room, Mount Gambier Library

• Wednesdays: June 11, 18, 25

• Fridays: July 4, 11, 18

Penola – Meeting Room, Visitor Information Centre (John Shaw Neilson Room)

• Wednesdays: August 13, 20, 27

Millicent – Millicent Council Chambers

• Wednesdays: September 10, 17, 24

Port MacDonnell – Meeting Room, Community Centre

• Wednesdays: October 1, 8, 15

All sessions run from 1:00pm to 2:30pm.

To register your place, contact Sandi Elliott:

📞 0437 246 484

✉ [email protected]

Program content for this initiative was developed with support from the Government of South Australia Department of Human Services and the Community Bank Mount Gambier & District branch of Bendigo Bank. FRRR’s recent funding now ensures the program can roll out to caregivers across the Lower South East.