A new and vital support program will begin for Bayswater residents in October and November, giving carers of all kinds a chance to connect and relax together.
Care4Carers, is a new free, safe and supportive program for women who ‘care’ and will commence in regular sessions this coming Thursday on 16 October.
Life’s ups and downs affect us all, and it is important to know that there are people who can walk alongside when support is needed.
Elm St Mission, along with Women’s Health East, will offer the free program for women who provide unpaid care for partners, children, parents and others.
“This new program is for women who need some time out, want to connect with others, enjoy activities, have a chat and feel free to be themselves,” said Program Coordinator, Ethne Pfeiffer.
“We will continue our open-door program where people can drop in and say hi, but this new opportunity is for women to connect with other carers and share their experiences,” she said.
Since 2019, Elm St Mission in Bayswater has been a safe gathering place for people experiencing mental health challenges or who are socially isolated.
Ms Pfeiffer said caring for others brings rewards and challenges, and it’s important that carers can be part of a group where they feel safe to share their thoughts, express themselves and have some fun.
“Whether you support someone with a mental health challenge, chronic condition or age-related needs, this group could be for you. Information on local services will be available,” she said.
Starting on Thursday, 16 October at 11 am – 12:30 pm, the Care4Carers group will provide weekly sessions through October-November that include a mix of informal chat and connection, relaxation, fun and wellbeing-focused activities, along with conversations about food and mood, with those who have walked similar pathways.
“Women’s Health East are really pleased to be working with Elm St Mission to deliver this program directly to women in the Knox community,” said Vanessa, a spokesperson from Women’s Health East.
“Care4Carers is completely free, welcoming, and easy to register for. Come along and connect with others who understand the challenges of caring,” she said.
Together, the two organisations are proud to be working to support women who give their time, care and compassion for other people’s wellbeing, offering a fresh and different support.
“Together they are a really good fit,” said Ms Pfeiffer.
“You don’t need to know anyone to come along,” she said.
“This is a safe, friendly place to be.”
With a morning tea provided and no referrals needed, people just need to register to be a part of the event.
The first session is on Thursday, 16 October, from 11am to 12.30pm at the Elm St Mission, 654 Mountain Highway, Bayswater.
The venue is accessible and welcoming for all.
There is free parking off Elm Street, only a 10-15 minute walk from Bayswater Station.
People can register here: https://events.humanitix.com/care4carers-a-safe-and-supportive-environment-for-women-who-care
If you have any questions, please contact Ethne on 0428 330 873 or email info@elmstmission.org.au
