By the end of this year, more than one million Victorians are expected to be unpaid carers, according to advocacy group Carers Victoria.
These are community members, mostly women, providing care and support to family or friends with a disability, mental illness, chronic health issue or age-related needs.
It’s a vital role, but it often takes a toll.
According to results from the 2024 National Carer Survey, more than 60 per cent of responding carers in Victoria felt socially isolated.
More than 50 per cent experienced high or very high psychological distress, and more than 50 per cent were financially stressed.
The demands of caregiving can strain relationships, restrict personal freedom, and bring intense emotions such as guilt, grief and frustration, according to Carers Victoria.
The organisation aims to prioritise the wellbeing of carers and provide connectedness and relief.
To support this, regional carer advisors have been appointed across regional Victoria, including in the Shepparton area.
These advisors have been tasked with facilitating events designed to raise awareness of the local support services available to unpaid carers.
“Carers often put the needs of others ahead of their own,” regional carer advisor for Shepparton and Bendigo Abbey Brown said.
“These events are a chance for them to take a break and learn about services that can help them.
“When we support carers, we make the whole community stronger.”
The Lunch for Carers event will be held on Tuesday, February 18 at The Vault in Shepparton.
Representatives from three local services will be present to provide practical advice and resources.
The event is also designed to give local carers a chance to connect and recharge.
For more information, visit the event page online at tinyurl.com/383ty572
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