Community Services Minister Tony Simpson opened Carers Week WA by inviting family, friends and neighbours to give one of Western Australia's 310,000 carers a well-deserved break.
"If you have a carer in your family or know carers in your community, ask them if they need a break, no matter whether it's an hour to do the grocery shopping, have a haircut or a night off for a movie," Mr Simpson said.
The Minister will attend a lunch in Perth tomorrow to honour carers who provide ongoing voluntary support and assistance to someone who is frail, aged, or has a mental illness or disability.
"Carers often shoulder the responsibility of looking after someone 24 hours a day, can feel tired and overwhelmed and may just need a short break every now and again," he said.
The Liberal National Government supports carers with more than $763,000 in 2013-14 for counselling, social support, training and education programs delivered through Carers WA.
The funding provides face-to-face and phone counselling, a telephone information line for carers and organisations, social networking activities, and training and education for both carers and organisations dealing with carers.
Other programs funded through the Department of Local Government and Communities include:
CARE (Carers Awareness, Recognition and Education) which helps public and community sector organisations understand the needs of carers in the workplace
A Young Carers Project to increase awareness among school staff of the challenges that young carers face
A Working Carers Forum this Friday to discuss how workplaces can support employees with caring responsibilities.
Carers can access respite and support through their local Carer Respite and Carelink Centre by calling FREECALL 1800 052 222.
Carers Week is celebrated throughout Australia from October 13 to 19.
Fact File
There are an estimated 310,000 carers in WA who provide ongoing support and assistance to family members or others in the community
In May 2013, the State Government announced free off-peak public transport for all WA carers
Eligible carers also get a 50% discount on their vehicle licence fee
Minister's office - 6552 6600
