(03) 9455 0822 After Hours (existing clients only): (03) 9483 7940. Contact Palliative Care Advice on 1800 360 000 for general information  
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Government funded program for carers to launch in February.

Banksia Palliative Care Service (Banksia) is delighted to announce our “Empowering Carers” Program which will be launched in February. Grant funding from the Victorian Government Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, specifically allocated to implement “Supporting Carers Locally” programs has made this exciting iniative possible The program aims to provide support for carers of people who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness by providing them with education opportunities and social activities to enhance their physical, mental and emotional health.

Empowering Carers will be a pilot program, which, if successful will become part of Banksia’s ongoing service. The content has been developed after consumer consultation via specialised focus groups and carer surveys to determine what would benefit them most when supporting a loved one in palliative care. It has been carefully curated based on the research, and will include both education sessions and social events.

The specific goals of the program are to:

  • Enhance carers knowledge of what to expect when caring for someone with a life-limiting illness;
  • Improve Carers physical, emotional and mental health;
  • Provide support from health professionals and other carers living in similar situations;
  • Share personal experiences;
  • Teach new skills; and
  • Provide opportunities to socialise and form friendships.

The first social and education activities commence in February and details can be found here.

This program is in addition to the already successful Client and Carer Support Program (CCSP) which has been running for over two years. Funded by the East Melbourne Primary Health Network, the CCSP has been designed to provide support and education to carers and clients, to ensure clients whose wish is to remain at home, can do so. This program is run by Banksia’s team of Enrolled Nurses, who conduct assessments including a CSNAT (Carer Support needs Assessment Tool) to establish in what areas carers feel they need the most support, and address these needs accordingly. This includes general hygiene support, end-of-life care, basic wound assessments and management as well as respite.

For more information on these programs, please call Banksia on 9455 0822 or visit our website www.banksiapalliative.com.au