Supports for carers

 Carer Gateway is a national support service for unpaid carers. This includes parents looking after children who have a disability or chronic illness.  It is an initiative funded by the Australian Government and provides a range of services and supports for carers, ensuring they can continue providing care while maintaining their own well-being.

Services offered through Carer Gateway are free of charge, and may include counselling, respite, training, and financial assistance. There is also a forum to get advice and support from other carers like you. 

 Carers can access support by:

• Calling the Carer Gateway hotline: 1800 422 737 (available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm local time).

• Visiting the website: Carer Gateway, where they can find information, use online tools, or request services.

As important as it is to provide care for your child, it is also crucial that as a carer you are looking after yourself. Your well-being directly affects your ability to provide quality care for others. Caring for someone with a disability, chronic illness, mental health condition, or frailty can be emotionally, physically, and mentally demanding. Without self-care, carers risk burnout, health problems, and reduced effectiveness in their caregiving role.

• GP - your GP is your best first point of contact for accessing other mental health support within the system.  GPs can identify signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, and provide a Mental Health Treatment Plan, which enables you to access 10 subsidised mental health sessions through Medicare. 
• Headspace is a national mental health organisation that provides mental health support for people aged 12-25. They provide a range of mental health related services through their physical centres, online platforms, and phone support. 
• NSW Mental Health Access Line - 1800 011 511 -  is a 24/7 telephone service  that provides immediate mental health support, advice, and referrals for individuals experiencing mental health issues or crises. It serves as a central point of contact for people needing help with mental health concerns, whether for themselves, a loved one, or someone they are supporting.