Anne Parisianne
Unpaid carers in the Kalkallo area can now join The Walk for Carers activity supported by the Neighbourhood Carers Club.
Carers can join other carers for a monthly walk where participants will start bonding with others while walking through the neighbourhood, and end with chats over coffee or tea at the centre.
Neighbourhood Houses Victoria Carer project coordinator Michelle Willoughby said the goal of the activity is to improve carers wellbeing by addressing the isolation and burnout often experienced by carers through social connection and peer support.”
“Our carer support groups report multiple benefits of the program including improved health and wellbeing, friendship, increased knowledge of carer services and connection with their local neighbourhood house or centre,” she said.
“Our groups are often attended by guest speakers who help carers navigate and learn about the supports available to them.”
According to the Neighbourhood Carers Club’s website, unpaid carers are family, friends, workmates, or neighbours of someone who has a disability, illness, injury, or addiction.
Anyone could become, or need, a carer at any time, and at least 10 per cent of the Australian population are unpaid carers.
The monthly evening walking group will run from 6.30-7.30pm on the last Thursday of every month.
The starting point is at Kalkallo Community Centre, 33 Toyon Road.
Details: www.nhvic.org.au/kalkallo-community-centre-walks-for-carers
