The McGowan Government has joined Western Australians in recognising and celebrating the impact made by carers to launch National Carers Week.
Carers Week, which runs from today (October 13) to Saturday October 19 this year, is held annually to highlight the valuable and selfless contributions made by carers across the country.
An estimated 320,000 people - or one in eight Western Australians - are currently providing care for loved ones in WA.
Carers provide support to a family member or friend who has a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness or who is frail. They are represented across all age groups, areas and backgrounds and provide vital support to those in need.
This year's theme 'why we care' is an opportunity for carers to share their experiences and tell their story.
Their role makes a positive impact and a significant difference to the lives and wellbeing of families, friends and people that they care for.
As part of the 2019 Carers Week celebrations, the digital tower at Perth's Yagan Square will feature videos provided by Carers Australia, Carers WA, Alzheimer's WA and Helpingminds that acknowledge and celebrate the role of carers.
Further information on the role and support provided by Carers WA is available on the peak body's website: https://www.carerswa.asn.au
Details of State Government initiatives to support and assist carers can be found on the Department of Communities website:
https://dlgc.communities.wa.gov.au/CommunityInitiatives/Pages/Carers.aspx
As stated by Community Services Minister Simone McGurk:
"Carers Week is a time to recognise the highly valuable contribution that carers make to their communities, and ensure they seek out the support available to them to fulfil this role.
"Being a carer can be more demanding than a full-time job. Many carers dedicate more than 40 hours of their time every week to supporting a loved one.
"Their work is often at home and behind closed doors, so carers are at times unsurprisingly susceptible to feeling that their role is hidden or unrecognised.
"The McGowan Government is committed to ensuring that carers receive the support and recognition they deserve."
