Newcastle residents should consider a role in caring, according to Carers NSW representative Tracy Crisp.
And, she believes, National Carers Week (16-22 October) is a timely occasion to reinforce that message.
It comes as City of Newcastle hosted a forum at Fort Scratchley to recognise more than 15,000 people, who provide round the clock care and assistance to a family member or friend, throughout the LGA.
“In Australia, after the last census, we had approximately 2.65 million carers – and we know that figure is far greater now,” Ms Crisp said.
“That’s due to the fact we have a hidden workforce in this country.
“They’re out in our communities in every walk of life, contributing and caring for others, but they’re not accumulating superannuation, don’t have access to personal or annual leave days.
“They are white-knuckling it day-in, day-out trying to do the best they can.
“To be honest, they’re all unsung heroes.
“Often the focus is on the person requiring care, rather than the individual or a team, who is looking after them.
“But, that is changing.
“Yes, there are many challenges, and it can be tough sometimes, however the benefits far exceed the drawbacks.
“We know in young people it really instils a sense of compassion and a closeness in relationships, as well as a world view.
“Thankfully, there’s better support available, too.”
Ms Crisp admitted it was “fantastic” the federal government had jumped on board.
“It’s not only acknowledging the massive workload carers contribute to our society, it’s actioned the necessary reforms to roll out specific strategies, such as the Carer Gateway,” she said.
“Just like the NDIS and My Aged Care, which assists people with disabilities and older Australians, this initiative offers free services and support, such as counselling, respite and help with tasks like lawn-mowing and house cleaning.
“It’s an incredible program – and a good starting point.
“Registration is very easy, too; people can simply phone 1800 422 737.
“There’s no paperwork or online forms, just a conversation, which makes it extremely streamlined.”
For Hunter carer Tracy Ellem, she described her journey as “cyclic”.
“Caring came as a bit of a surprise to me,” the Beresfield mother said.
“My son, at the age of three, had trouble with his development.
“Soon I realised I was doing more as a parent than others.
“It took me a while to understand I was in a carer’s role.
“By the time he was seven-and-a-half, he’d been diagnosed with autism and ADHD.
“So, I was well-planted [there] as a carer.
“Then my younger child developed respiratory issues.
“Overall, I have three different care levels – my son with autism, my son with asthma and my husband, who has a really bad back.
“Work was my respite.”
However, Ms Ellem found light at the end of the tunnel.
“Initially, I found I was quite isolated,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“However, I heard about Carers NSW through work.
“Through that [organisation], I met other people like me, where I could have conversations about hard things going on.
“From there, I felt empowered to speak on their behalf.
“Now, I’ve completely embraced being a carer, I understand that role, and want to support others going through it because it can be a lonely and tricky situation.
“I, definitely, draw a lot of strength from being in this position.
“I’ve learnt a lot along the way, as well, in regards to managing certain aspects, such as dealing with schools and health services.
“I can relate to their challenges.
“But, it’s certainly rewarding, and having the assistance and support from someone like Carers NSW makes a huge difference.
“It is wonderful to turn to them whenever I need it.”
Luke Randall, 22, transformed his personal circumstances into a positive attribute, too.
“I began my caring role at 13 in Year seven,” he said.
“Much like Tracy (Ellem), I never considered myself a carer until I was in Year nine.
“I just thought I was doing what was expected of me within my family unit.
“Honestly, I didn’t think I was doing anything extra.
“However, I’m thankful I’m a young carer.
“It’s shaped and moulded me into the person I am today and allowed me to explore different facets of life that, previously, I wouldn’t have considered before.
“I never thought I’d go into social work at university.
“But, after spending time caring and looking at the impacts [social] workers have, it made me want to take on that role.
“It teaches you so much about empathy, helping people and supporting everyone.”
Carers Week Program Newcastle 2022
19 October
- Memory Room Project – Session
Running fortnightly, these sessions are tailored for people living with dementia and their carers. They are art-related workshops led by an art therapist, encourage conversation, laughter and connection.
Location: Various Newcastle Libraries branches
Bookings: Phone Kay Pisel on 4974 5302 or email [email protected]
19 October
- Multicultural Carers Morning Tea
Location: Hunter Multicultural Communities, Waratah
Bookings: Phone Keiko Clements on 0437 986 903 or email [email protected]
