Vic Cancer Council holds Carers’ Forum on 10 May

Unpaid carers, family and friends of people with cancer are urged to attend the Cancer Council’s first Carers’ Forum on Saturday 10 May, 2008.

This interactive forum is an opportunity for unpaid carers, family and friends to share experiences and discuss many of the issues carers may face. Topics include: what happens when the carer has cancer, self-care and support services available.

Dr Amanda Hordern, deputy director of the Cancer Information and Support Service at The Cancer Council Victoria, said the forum is the first step towards bridging the gap in support services for unpaid carers, family members and friends.

“This forum will address many of the practical and emotional issues that family and carers may face and will also provide a safe space to talk about experiences and concerns.”

Dr Hordern said the Cancer Council has plans to launch other support services for family and unpaid carers in the near future.

“Many family members and carer’s put aside their own needs when looking after someone with cancer,” Dr Hordern said.

“As part of the Cancer Council’s commitment to providing support to all Victorians affected by cancer, we are in the process of developing a new information kit specific to family and carers.

“We also have plans to launch ‘Family Cancer Connect’, a telephone support program where family and carers can talk to someone going through a similar experience.

“These services will help ensure that the carers are being cared for too.”

For more information or to register, please phone the Vic Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20, Monday to Friday, 8.30am-8pm. Registration is essential by Wednesday 7 May, 2008