Feature Carer Support Group

Sue Pringle facilitates a support group whilst also assisting volunteer facilitators at Aspire, an organisation based in Albury/Wodonga which supports people with disabilities and their families. Sue has 30 years of experience with carer support groups and she is passionate about the positive impact these groups have on unpaid carers.

There are 12 carer support groups overseen by Sue including the Down’s Syndrome family network, NDIS, sole parents, ADHD, Autism and a group for grandparents. All are facilitated by committed and skilled volunteers.

Aspire receives funding for families in remote areas which enables the groups to offer varied, valuable and interesting activities for carers. Respite is usually offered thanks to a pool of volunteers who, for example, engage children while parents participate in a support group.

Activities for carers range from dinners, lunches, outdoor activities, guest speakers and trips. Sue explained that a dinner at a pleasant venue provides highly stressed carers a chance to relax, enjoy others’ company and a nice meal which they might not otherwise be able to afford. A unique activity for the Healthy Mum’s group which was very popular recently was axe throwing!  Sue suggests, where possible offer some activities in the evenings which enables working parents to attend. Weekend meetings and activities have also proven to be increasingly popular.

Sue affirmed the value of carer support groups, as they offer learning, a break from the demands of caring and, most importantly, connection with community and information on where to access support. This is especially useful for new residents to the region.

Advice from Sue includes the value of knowing your local community and being able to pass on meaningful supports. She also advises facilitators to approach local businesses who can support activities in a range of ways including providing suitable venues. Another tip is to offer as many face to face activities and meetings as possible whilst supporting connection between carers with online platforms such as Facebook. And lastly, co-design activities with carers based on their needs and interests.

Carers Victoria wishes Sue, the volunteers and support groups at Aspire – Albury/Wodonga – continued success and congratulates them on making significant impact on the lives of carers.