Parents/carers supporting family members is ongoing and can be overwhelming at times. Here are a few support options to consider.
Parent support
The Strengthening Parent Support Program is funded through DFFH and is provided in the Central Highlands through the Pinarc Parent Support Program. This free service facilitates support groups, including the Ballarat Autism Parent Connection Group, and provides support and information to individual carers and families. This is available to all parents/carers of children with disabilities 0 -18 years.
You do not need to have a NDIS plan or be using Pinarc for any other services. Contact the coordinator on 53291361 or rpaton@pinarc.org.au
A CARER GETAWAY
Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to Register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays https://www.carergateway.gov.au/
Locally this is run through Ballarat Health Services. Some services they can provide :
Victorian Government Carer Card Program
The program has a wide range of discounts and benefits on offer from businesses, the local government and community organisations.
Apply online https://www.carercard.vic.gov.au/carers or call 1800 901 958 (toll free) and they can send you an application form.
https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/
Carers Victoria is our state branch of Carers Australia. They provide lots of great information and support session in person and online.
http://www.companioncard.org.au/
The Companion Card is issued to people with a significant, permanent disability, who can demonstrate that they are unable to access most community activities and venues without attendant care support. Participating organisations will issue the cardholder with a second ticket for their companion at no charge.
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
A list of current programs, services and payments available to carers is outlines on this webpage. https://www.dss.gov.au/disability-and-carers/carers
PARENT LINE 132298
https://services.dffh.vic.gov.au/parentline
Parentline is a phone service for parents and carers of children from birth to 18 years old. We offer confidential and anonymous counselling and support on parenting issues.
Our qualified counsellors are available to:
• Talk about any issues to do with parenting and your relationships with your child
• Help you with ways to cope and be a positive parent
• Help with your family’s wellbeing and resilience
• Connect you with services in your area.
VMCH is a registered NDIS provider, working with you in partnership to reach your individual goals. Our wide range of high quality disability support services for children and adults include accommodation, support coordination, allied health, help at home services and job/life skills.