Help and Support

Carer Advisory Line

Call 1800 242 636* (weekdays 8.30 am to 4.30 pm) to talk to a Carers Victoria worker about some common experiences for young carers and, what supports are available for them. The service can also offer suggestions on how your school or service can support and assist young carers.

Counselling

Click here to find out more about our counselling services

Young carer scholarships

Click here to find out more about the 2012 Young Carer Scholarship program.

Respite

Respite provides temporary relief for carers e.g. time away from the caring situation, personal care for the person being cared for, fun activities, group outings, individual support, camps and holiday programs.

Why is respite important?
Respite helps young carers get some time out for themselves - to look after their own health and well-being , to manage juggling their caring role with their education, friendships and other parts of their life. Respite also gives the person being cared for a chance to do some enjoyable activities.

Call Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres on 1800 052 222* to talk to a worker in your region about how respite could best support a young carer.

*free call from local phones, mobile calls at mobile rates

Community Development and Education - Young Carers

Young carers are often a hidden group of young people. Carers Victoria are committed to raising awareness in the community about young carers and to supporting schools and services to better provide for their needs. The Community Development and Education Worker focuses on liaison with these sectors to better equip them to identify and cater for young carers.

Carers Victoria coordinates a network of service providers who are interested in young carers. This network receives regular updates via ebulletin and meets face to face twice per year.

The Victorian Young Carer Action Team (VYCAT) hopes to improve the lives of young carers by organising social and recreational activities, and by providing opportunities for young carers to participate and have their say in the future directions of programs aimed at supporting them.

To find out more about any of these activities email our Education team or call 03 9396 9500.

Young carer resources flyer

Download a brochure for more information on the resources we have available to help young carers, including the Young Carer Survival Kit and educational DVDs.