Giving carers a break

A South West man is encouraging carers in Bunbury to join his new support group, which is designed to provide a break from their selfless routine.

Between 78,000 and 85,000 carers of people with frailty, living with disability, chronic mental or physical illness live in regional WA.

John Gardyne is organising one of three new support groups in the South West, offering carers the opportunity to get together and socialise.

The Bunbury support group will meet on the fourth Thursday every month, starting this month from 2pm to 3.30pm on June 27.

“This is a support group for any unpaid carer in the area that wants to take time for themselves and socialise,” Mr Gardyne said.

“This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.”

Mr Gardyne said activities the group would do included board or card games at the Cancer Council WA’s premises at Dot’s Place on Forrest Avenue, through to excursions around Bunbury.

“We’ll do bus trips and go and visit interesting places,” he said.

“Being a carer can be emotional, physically and financially draining, so it’s good to take time for yourself.

“There are a lot of people out there who don’t even know they are a carer.”

Mr Gardyne said the group would be free for a carer’s first six sessions and a small fee would apply afterwards.

There are unlimited places available, but carers are encouraged to RSVP at events@carerswa.asn.au or 1300 227 377.