PRONIA has urged the significance of looking after carers as part of the celebration of National Carers Week in Victoria (13-19 October 2024), highlighting the important role they play in our communities.
PRONIA, a key support organization for the Greek Australian community for over 50 years, shed light on the necessity of recognising the roughly three million unpaid carers (over 700,000 of them being in Victoria) in honour of National Carers Week (the theme this year being “Millions of Reasons to Care”).
The organisation noted that carers provide crucial emotional, psychological and practical support to loved ones who may require care due to health, ageing or wellbeing needs.
It expressed that many must balance their caring responsibilities with other duties like work, family, study, stating that they often prioritise others’ needs ahead of their own.
PRONIA urged all to support carers through the following ways:
- take time to talk with a carers about their needs
- offer to help with small tasks or even household chores
- ask how you may be able to help
- encourage and invite them to a social event
- acknowledge their efforts
- remind them that there are supports and services available for carers
PRONIA offers support services to help carers manage their responsibilities and their own wellbeing, and can assist carers to link with other key organisations such as Carer Gateway, and other local and government supports.
The organisation noted that their support services range from In Person and Telephone Carer support groups, Digital Literacy classes, in home Respite, counselling, case work support as well as a range of other activities.
It urged anyone seeking further information to contact their Casework Team on 9388 9998 or visit them at 7 Union Street Brunswick or 64 Portman Street Oakleigh Monday – Friday between 9am-5pm.
