A growing number of Australians are taking on the important role of carer; but while there are many support services and resources for the person who is sick, there aren’t as many for our carers.
Cancer Council Australia, Swinburne University of Technology and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre have collaborated on a new project “Australian Carers Talk”, which is a Cancer Australia Supporting people with cancer Grant initiative, funded by the Australian Government. The research has informed carer-specific, evidence-based information and support in the form of , launched by Cancer Council Australia.
Care for carers is desperately needed
Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that more than Australians are informal carers. This involves providing essential assistance in managing medications and symptoms, personal care, transportation, and social and emotional support to those affected by disease or disability – which includes more than currently living with or who have lived with cancer.