Information for carers
Caring for a loved one or relative with a mental illness can present many challenges. Family members and other carers can be an integral part of recovery and as such Southern Health tries to help you with your needs while your loved one’s being taken care of by us.
Family/Carer Consultants - we’re here for you!
A Family/Carer Consultant is someone just like you - someone who cares or has previously cared for a loved one with a mental illness and has shared many of the experiences and situations faced by families and carers.
Family/Carer consultants are employed by public mental health services and have good knowledge of both the mental health system & the many issues faced by families and carers.
They understand the frustrations and challenges encountered by families & carers because they have ‘the lived experience’.
Family/Carer Consultants:
- Provide support, information and referrals to families and carers.
- Work closely with Mental Health staff in developing service responsiveness to the needs of families and carers.
- Develop ways in which staff, consumers and their families and carers can work together to improve current services whilst planning for better services in the future.
- Encourage families and carers to speak up and become involved in various services.
- Provide families and carers with information to help them lead balanced lives, assist in achieving and maintaining optimal mental health and wellbeing.
- Present family and carer issues to management in order to improve services.
Contact us
If you have any concerns or queries about the mental health system, such as resources regarding your rights and eligibilities as a carer, as well as general information regarding respite services, support groups and counselling options please contact us
T: (03) 9554 1844
Other help
Are you experiencing increasing amounts of financial stress and not able to keep on top of everything due to unforseen circumstances? Talk to your Case Manager about the Carer Support Program – Brokerage Fund
