Cobram Community House will be celebrating the fantastic work carers do for members of the Cobram community with an afternoon tea on Thursday, October 26.
CCH chief executive Christine Osborne said the afternoon tea was part of the organisation’s outreach mission.
“Cobram Community House is a carer-friendly house and has been working on a project to support carers in the community,” she said.
“Carers in rural areas find it difficult to access services, so we wanted to provide an opportunity for them to learn about the support that is available to them.”
A carer provides unpaid care and support to family members and/or friends with a disability, mental illness, chronic health issue or an older person with care needs.
Data has shown that 11 per cent of the population are unpaid carers, which translates to about 1000 unpaid carers in Cobram and surrounds.
Research has shown that, though caring can be a rewarding experience, it is often difficult and stressful.
Carers can often experience stress, anxiety and the feeling of being “trapped”.
They are also likely to experience socioeconomic issues due to their caring duties.
According to Ms Osborne, these stresses are worse for those in regional and rural communities.
“This is exacerbated by carers living in rural and remote communities because access to supports and services is more difficult,” she said.
“Many people in the community don’t understand the challenges of an unpaid carer role, and we want to increase the level of awareness about carers, the respect they are shown and the recognition they are given for the work they do.
“Unpaid carers are the unsung heroes of our community, who need to be recognised for their efforts and the contribution they make because of their care role.”
Starting at 1.30pm, the afternoon tea is designed to provide a safe, welcoming and supportive experience for carers.
It will include guest speakers, information, service providers, health checks, pampering and delicious food.
“Guest speakers will be people with lived experience who understand the rewards, challenges and true value of carers,” Ms Osborne said.
“We will also hear from some of our local services. We will have health checks, massage and mindfulness activities.”
The event is free to attend, and Ms Osborne encourages as many people as possible to come along.
“I encourage anyone who cares for a family member or friend to join us for a fun and informative afternoon,” she said.
“Please help us spread the word to all the amazing carers in the community.”
Call Cobram Community House on 5872 2224 to register your attendance.
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