Caring for carers

Carer Tess D'silva had her hair done by Nicole Sherson from Casey College of Beauty Therapy and Hairdressing. 140923_04 Picture: ROB CAREW

By TAYLAH MILNER

MENTAL health carers, their family and friends were treated to a spit roast lunch on Friday 26 June by a program run by Ermha Carer Support Services.
There were also gift bags, free mini manicures, seated massage, free basic haircuts, cooking demonstrations and several workshops on offer.
The event had a personal heart-warming speech from a carer about the benefits of the vocational support program for carers.
The Ermha Carer service supports carers of people with a mental illness, psychiatric disability or intellectual disability.
Carers of people with a mental illness have grave health risks in the workforce, and according to evidence the caring role can have a negative effect on their own mental health.
“We assist people to build their self-confidence, focus on their future by setting and working on goals. Watching carers reach their potential is very rewarding,” Megan Powell of Ermha Support Services Vocational Program said.
Carers come from various cultures, religions and background. There is no age limit with being carer, in fact more then 300,000 are young carers in Australia; 150,000 of which are less than 18 years old.
If you would like to get involved or are interested in receiving more information from Ermha, contact 1300-376-421.