Carers embrace Gateway support

A national online and telephone support service set up to provide assistance to Australia’s 2.7 million carers has already helped more than half a million people.

The Hon Jane Prentice, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, said Carers Gateway was established in December 2015 and is now averaging 800 calls for help every month. 

“Since its launch, Carer Gateway has had more than half a million online visits and nearly 12,000 calls through its national contact centre,” Mrs Prentice said.

“Carer Gateway is a one-stop shop for those hard-working, time-poor carers looking to connect with local services such as counselling, respite or access to government assistance,” Mrs Prentice said.

“I am very pleased to see how many carers are using this service – our customer satisfaction rate for their overall experience is currently greater than 90 per cent.”

The Carer Gateway website offers practical tips for carers– from financial planning to safety in the house. Earlier this year a Facebook page was launched to help foster the carer community.

A group of carers share their personal stories in a video series available on the Carer Gateway website, providing insight on the diversity of carers and what they can do to support loved ones.

“People can become carers anytime, anywhere, and for a variety of reasons – what is important is to know there is help and support,” Mrs Prentice said.

Carer Gateway is available at www.carergateway.gov.au or by phoning 1800 422 737 between 8am-6pm on weekdays. Carers can also join the Carer Gateway Facebook community.