As National Carers Week shines a light on their efforts, advocates are calling for greater appreciation and ongoing support for those who dedicate their lives to others.
The Autism Community Network (ACN), based in St George, is hosting a free high tea on October 16 to celebrate carers and their vital role in the community. Sponsored by the Benevolent Society and Carers Gateway, the event will offer a morning of relaxation, mindfulness and connection.
Chief Executive Officer of ACN Vanessa Gauci has a 22 year old son with autism, she said the event is about giving carers a moment to focus on themselves.
“It’s an opportunity for us to acknowledge the hard work that our carers put in. Carers often put themselves last … this is about giving the carers an opportunity to have a bit of self-care,” Ms Gauci said.
“I feel that carers should be able to take a day off for themselves.”
Disability support carer Stephanie Taylor said that while her role is challenging, it has its benefits.
“I help them with daily activities like showering, preparing food, just anything that they really want to do and need assistance with,” Ms Taylor said.
“Everyone that I work with is so different. Figuring out everyone’s different routine and just all the medications and everything that comes with my role is obviously very difficult,
“But obviously it’s also very rewarding… It makes me really happy to see them happy.”
Ms Taylor said recognition events like ACN’s high tea make a difference.
“I think events like that are just super important and I think it’s really nice that society has such a massive appreciation for carers now,” she said.
“I think it’s really important for even carers to just attend things like that so they know that they are appreciated as well.”
