Carers living in Bendigo will have more opportunities to be healthy, active and well thanks to a $1 million package of grants from the Andrews Labor Government.
Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards today announced that local community organisations will receive the following grants as part of the package to improve the health and wellbeing of carers.
- $17,073.00 for Loddon Campaspe Sports Assembly Incorporated to conduct a scoping exercise to identify local carers residing in the region and connecting to support and respite.
- $17,991.00 for Interchange Loddon Mallee Region Inc for a program for siblings of children with disability to obtain peer support and education within a recreational context.
- $11,000 for CSS Walking and Wellbeing Group as continued funding to expand and strengthen current weekly yoga sessions for carers of school aged children for improved health and wellbeing.
- $19,059.34 for City of Greater Bendigo to provide a series of workshops for carers of all ages, backgrounds and cultures to participate and share their stories.
Across the state 94 community organisations and groups are receiving grants to support carers to be physically and mentally healthy, socially active and better connected with other carers, support programs and resources.
The new Supporting Carers Locally Grants Program will focus on support for carers in regional areas, as well as under-recognised groups such as young carers.
More than 736,600 Victorian carers give their time and effort to look after a family member or friend who needs them. It can be difficult for carers to access the services they need to look after themselves and make sure they’re supported in their care role.
The Labor Government is investing almost $50 million to help carers with extra respite, transport concessions and grants to support local initiatives.
Supporting the health and wellbeing of carers is a key priority of the Victorian carer strategy 2018–22 – the first whole-of-government strategy recognising carers.
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan MP
“We’re very proud to fund these fantastic local support groups and initiatives to help make sure carers get the support they need and have asked for.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP
“Often the best source of information and support for carers is other carers. These grants will give them greater emotional support and connect them with other people dealing with the same challenges.”