Am I a carer?

Summary

In Australia, over 2.5 million unpaid carers support people with various needs, yet 79% don't recognize themselves as carers. This includes parents caring for children with disabilities or individuals providing care to those with chronic conditions, mental illnesses, or age-related issues. Many are unaware they may be eligible for government assistance and support services. It's crucial for carers to acknowledge their role to access necessary resources and support. Carer Gateway offers valuable help, advice, and connections to a supportive community for those providing unpaid care.

Takeaways

• 😀 There are over 2.5 million unpaid carers across Australia providing care for people with various needs.
• 😀 79% of these carers don't identify themselves as 'carers.'
• 😀 Caring for a child with a disability is an example of being a carer, even if you don't see yourself as one.
• 😀 If you provide unpaid care for a person with specific needs, you are likely a carer and may be eligible for assistance.
• 😀 Carers can look after individuals with disabilities, mental illnesses, chronic conditions, terminal illnesses, dementia, or substance abuse problems.
• 😀 Being a carer can range from providing care for an hour a day to 24/7, but all forms of care qualify for support services.
• 😀 Recognizing yourself as a carer is essential to access services, information, and financial support.
• 😀 There is a supportive community of other carers who understand the challenges you face, and talking to them can be helpful.
• 😀 Carer Gateway is available to connect carers with support services and advice.
• 😀 For more information and assistance, carers can visit carergateway.gov.au or call 1-800-422-737.

Q & A

How many unpaid carers are there in Australia?

There are over 2 and 1/2 million unpaid carers across Australia.

What percentage of carers in Australia don't see themselves as carers?

79% of carers in Australia don't actually see themselves as carers.

Why might someone not recognize themselves as a carer?

Someone might not recognize themselves as a carer because they might view their responsibilities, like caring for a child with a disability, as a parental duty rather than as a role requiring support or recognition.

What types of people might require unpaid care?

People who might require unpaid care include those with disabilities, mental illnesses, chronic conditions, terminal illnesses, dementia, alcohol or drug-related problems, or the elderly.

If you care for someone for just an hour a day, are you still considered a carer?

Yes, regardless of whether you provide care for an hour a day or 24/7, if you provide unpaid care and support to someone with specific needs, you are likely to be considered a carer.

What support might be available to unpaid carers?

Unpaid carers may be entitled to government assistance, support services, advice, and financial assistance to help them provide the best care they can.

Why is it important for carers to recognize their role?

It is important for carers to recognize their role so they can access the full support they need, including services, information, and financial assistance.

How can talking to other carers be beneficial?

Talking to other carers can be helpful because they understand the challenges you face, which can provide emotional support and practical advice.

What is Carer Gateway?

Carer Gateway is a service that helps link carers with support and advice, connecting them with resources that can assist them in their caregiving role.

Where can carers find more information or assistance?

Carers can find more information or assistance by visiting carergateway.gov.au or by calling 1-800-422-737.