There is a wide range of support available to help you with both the practical and emotional aspects of your caring role. The availability of services may vary depending on where you live. Some services are free but others may have a cost.
Carers Associations – Carers NSW provides services to carers including short-term counselling and information on respite and other services. Call the Carer Line on 1800 242 636.
Respite services – Respite care is available to give you a break. It can be for a couple of hours, overnight or several days. You can use respite care for any reason, such as looking after your own health, visiting friends or going to appointments. The Carer Gateway provides information about respite and other support services. Call 1800 422 737 or visit carergateway.gov.au. Oncology social workers can also offer support and refer you to appropriate services.
Cancer Council – Call Cancer Council 13 11 20 or visit your local Cancer Council website to find out more about carers’ services. You can also find online peer support at the Cancer Council Online Community.
Listen to our podcasts on How to Help Someone with Cancer and Cancer Affects the Carer Too
Kerryann White, Manager, People and Culture, Cancer Council SA; Nicola Martin, Principal, McCabe Curwood, NSW; Jane Auchettl, Coordinator, Education and Training Programs, Cancer Council Victoria; Craig Brewer, Consumer; Alana Cochrane, Human Resources Business Partner, Greater Bank Newcastle, NSW; Shona Gates, Senior Social Worker, North West Cancer Centre, North West Regional Hospital, TAS; Dianne Head, Cancer Nurse Coordinator, Metastatic Breast Cancer, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre Westmead, NSW; Alex Kelly, Talent Acquisition Business Partner, Aon, NSW; Prof Bogda Koczwara AM, Senior Staff Specialist, Department of Medical Oncology, Flinders Medical Centre, SA; Sharyn McGowan, Occupational Therapist, Bendigo Health, VIC; Jeanne Potts, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council Victoria; Michelle Smerdon, Legal and Financial Support Services Manager, Cancer Council NSW. We would also like to than the health professionals, consumers and editorial teams who have worked on previous editions of this title.
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