Families of people with disabilities will be supported to share their knowledge and work together as part of a new community networking initiative.
Twelve family networks of up to 10 families and carers are being brought together to share issues and work on practical solutions together.
Carers Queensland is using $2.55 million in Queensland Government funds allocated over three years to bring families together in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Hervey Bay, Warrego, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Brisbane, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.
The peak body began this work in spring last year and expects to have networks established within a few months.
Carers participating in the collective will be able to receive funds of up to $1750 to buy items or services to help them manage their daily challenges. For example, the funding might be used to purchase a computer with specialist software, extra in-home help or more therapeutic sessions.
Carers will also have access to extra counselling and help with planning for the future.
For more information about the networks visit Carers Australia or phone 1800 242 636.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License