Guidance on providing support and care

Support Systems for Families and Caregivers in Australia

Introduction:

This document provides a review of multiple Australian resources focused on supporting families, children, and caregivers. The sources highlight a comprehensive network of services addressing diverse needs, from early childhood education and care to supporting carers of people with disabilities and mental health issues. The overall aim is to promote positive outcomes and well-being for all members of the community through information, financial aid, practical support, and advocacy.

Key Themes and Ideas:

1. National Frameworks and Standards:

• National Quality Framework (NQF): A significant emphasis is placed on the National Quality Framework for early childhood education and care, overseen by ACECQA (Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority). The NQF provides a national approach to regulation and quality improvement. ACECQA is described as an organization that "works with all governments to provide guidance, resources and services to support the sector to improve outcomes for children.”
• National Standards for Child Safety: There is a strong focus on child safety and well-being, with various organizations at the national and state/territory level working to ensure children's rights are protected. The "Links & Resources" document lists many of these organizations.
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS): The NDIS is a key national program focused on supporting people with disabilities in Australia. The documents demonstrate awareness of the NDIS and its associated supports.

1. Comprehensive Support for Carers:

• Carer Gateway: The Carer Gateway is highlighted as a vital Australian Government program providing free services and support for carers, including emotional, practical, financial, and respite options. It is described as an “Australian Government program providing free services and support for carers.”
• Range of Carer Needs Addressed: Services for carers are designed to address a variety of needs, including stress management, financial assistance, respite care, emergency planning, and education/skills development. The Carer Gateway emphasizes the importance of early intervention and preventative support.
• Young Carers: Specific resources and financial aid (such as the Young Carer Bursary Program) are available for young carers to balance education and caring roles. The Department of Social Services recognizes the importance of supporting young carers stating that the Bursary program "helps young carers to study and manage their caring roles by reducing their need to work."
• Financial Assistance: Several programs offer financial support, including the Carer Adjustment Payment and various Centrelink payments for those eligible. The DSS website also states that financial assistance from Services Australia is available, and provides links for further information.
• National Carer Strategy: A strategy is being developed to support Australia's unpaid carers, indicating ongoing efforts to formalize support.

1. Mental Health Support:

• SANE Australia: SANE provides comprehensive support for individuals with complex mental health issues and their families, offering a variety of services including digital and telehealth support, community forums, peer support, and access to information. They are described as an organization "for people with recurring, persistent or complex mental health issues and trauma, and for their families, friends and communities.”
• Other Mental Health Organ

Chapters

• 0:00 Comprehensive Care Support in Australia
• 13:01 Supporting Caregivers and Receiving Care
• 20:35 The Evolution of Person-Centered Care

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:19

Welcome to our deep dive. Today we're looking at care, support and resources specifically in Australia. And wow, you've given us a really interesting mix of sources here yeah, we've got Government websites, nonprofits, even some resources aimed at child care providers.

Speaker 2: 0:36

It seems like you're after a pretty comprehensive view of the entire landscape of support and I have to say the depth and breadth of what we found is pretty amazing.

Speaker 1: 0:46

Yeah, you know, what's really fascinating to me is how much the material reflects a real shift in how we think about supporting carers.

Speaker 2: 0:55

Oh.

Speaker 1: 0:55

It's not just about financial assistance anymore, you know. It's about recognizing the many different challenges that carers face and then providing a whole spectrum of resources to kind of meet those needs.

Speaker 2: 1:06

Okay. So let's unpack that a little, because right away the Australian government's role in all this really jumps out.

Speaker 1: 1:11

Right.

Speaker 2: 1:11

The Department of Social Services seems to be right at the forefront, with their national care strategy, acting as kind of like the blueprint for nationwide support.

Speaker 1: 1:20

Can you tell us a little bit more about what that strategy actually entails?

Speaker 2: 1:24

Well, the National Carer Strategy. It really sets the stage for a much more collaborative approach to carer support. Okay, it's all about recognizing the value of carers and then making sure that their social and economic well-being is being looked after, and so this strategy really informs the development of all these programs and services. Right, so it guides the government's efforts to address the diverse needs of carers across the entire country.

Speaker 1: 1:51

Okay, and one resource that kept popping up over and over again in our research is this thing called Carer Gateway. Yes, seems to be a major player in this whole support system. So what makes Carer Gateway so central? Well, carer Gateway so central.

Speaker 2: 2:04

Well, Carer Gateway really embodies that shift. We were just talking about Almost like a one-stop shop for carers.

Speaker 1: 2:09

Okay.

Speaker 2: 2:09

Offering everything from counseling and peer support groups to financial assistance and even help with emergency planning.

Speaker 1: 2:16

Really.

Speaker 2: 2:17

So it recognizes that carers need more than just money. They need practical skills, emotional support and a real sense of community.

Speaker 1: 2:25

Absolutely. I mean imagine juggling a full-time job, you know, raising kids, and then suddenly, you know, becoming responsible for a loved one's care.

Speaker 2: 2:35

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 2:36

This is the reality for millions of Australians.

Speaker 2: 2:38

It is.

Speaker 1: 2:39

And having a resource like Carer Gateway could really be a game changer for a lot of those people.

Speaker 2: 2:43

Absolutely, and it's about empowering carers to navigate the complexities of their role yeah, and ensuring they have the support they need to thrive, not just survive.

Speaker 1: 2:53

Yeah, speaking of surviving, let's talk about the elephant in the room, which is this financial strain that many carers face.

Speaker 2: 3:00

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 3:00

Several of the sources really highlighted just how significant an issue this can be.

Speaker 2: 3:04

Yes, the financial burden on carers can be really overwhelming. Many carers are forced to reduce their working hours or even quit their jobs altogether to provide care, and this can lead to a huge loss of income and often significant financial hardship. In fact, some of the sources shared stories of carers having to make really difficult choices, like choosing between paying for their own medication or their loved ones.

Speaker 1: 3:29

Gosh, that's heartbreaking. So how does the system address this? Yeah, what kind of financial support is actually available?

Speaker 2: 3:38

Well, the Australian government does offer financial assistance through programs like the carer payment and the carer allowance Okay. These payments provide ongoing support for eligible carers who meet certain criteria.

Speaker 1: 3:50

I see. So there are options, but it sounds like navigating these programs and actually understanding all the eligibility requirements could be a challenge in itself.

Speaker 2: 3:58

Yeah, that's a really valid point. The system can be very complex.

Speaker 1: 4:02

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 4:02

And accessing the right support often requires a deep understanding of the different programs and their eligibility criteria, and this just highlights the need for clear communication and readily available information to actually guide carers through the process.

Speaker 1: 4:16

Yeah, it's like having all these pieces of a puzzle but not knowing how to put them together. You know you might be eligible for certain benefits.

Speaker 2: 4:23

Right.

Speaker 1: 4:24

But if you don't even know they exist, it's not going to help you.

Speaker 2: 4:27

Exactly, and that's why resources like Care Gateway are so crucial.

Speaker 1: 4:31

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 4:31

They can actually help carers navigate the system, connect them with the right programs and provide guidance on how to actually access the support that they're entitled to.

Speaker 1: 4:40

You know, reading about all these financial challenges, it reminded me of when I first started caring for my grandmother. I was completely unprepared for the costs involved, from medical expenses to home modifications. It was a steep learning curve.

Speaker 2: 4:54

Yeah, many carers share similar experiences. It often comes as a shock just how demanding caregiving can be, both emotionally and financially, and it's not something that's widely discussed or understood, which can make it even more isolating for carers.

Speaker 1: 5:11

That brings up another really crucial aspect the emotional toll of caregiving. You know it's not just physically demanding. It takes a huge emotional toll as well.

Speaker 2: 5:20

Yes.

Speaker 1: 5:21

So how does the system address this?

Speaker 2: 5:22

Well, this is where organizations like SANE Australia step in.

Speaker 1: 5:26

OK.

Speaker 2: 5:26

They play a really vital role in supporting the mental well-being of carers.

Speaker 1: 5:30

OK.

Speaker 2: 5:31

They offer support groups, resources and even research on complex mental health issues related to caregiving.

Speaker 1: 5:37

I had no idea there was so much focus on the mental health of carers.

Speaker 2: 5:42

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 5:42

It makes sense, though, caring for a loved one, especially if they're dealing with a serious illness or disability, it can be incredibly stressful and emotionally draining.

Speaker 2: 5:51

Exactly, and the impact on a carer's mental health can be significant. Right, it recognizes that carers need a safe space to process their emotions, connect with others who understand what they're going through, and access tools to actually manage their own well-being.

Speaker 1: 6:10

So it sounds like Sany Australia is going beyond just traditional therapy or counseling.

Speaker 2: 6:14

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 6:14

What else do they offer to support carers' mental health?

Speaker 2: 6:17

Well, one particularly innovative resource that they offer is their online community forum.

Speaker 1: 6:21

Oh, wow.

Speaker 2: 6:22

This platform provides a 247 virtual support network for carers, allowing them to connect with others, share their experiences and access information and resources at any time.

Speaker 1: 6:33

Wow, a virtual support network that's always available. That could be a lifeline for carers who feel isolated or overwhelmed, especially those in rural areas or with limited access to traditional support services.

Speaker 2: 6:46

Absolutely. It's a brilliant example of how technology can be leveraged to break down barriers and make support more accessible to carers, no matter where they are or what their circumstances may be, and it also speaks to the growing recognition of the power of peer support. You know, connecting with others who share similar experiences can be incredibly beneficial.

Speaker 1: 7:06

Yeah, absolutely. Speaking of different experiences, one theme that emerged really strongly, especially from the Explore and Develop source, was child safety and well-being.

Speaker 2: 7:14

Yes, when children are involved in a caregiving situation, their unique needs must be considered.

Speaker 1: 7:20

Right, and the National Quality Framework, or NQF, was mentioned as a key framework for ensuring quality care in child care settings. So what exactly is the NQF and how does it relate to care support?

Speaker 2: 7:31

Well, think of the NQF as, like, the gold standard for child care across Australia.

Speaker 1: 7:37

Okay.

Speaker 2: 7:38

It sets benchmarks for safety, educational practices and overall quality in child care settings.

Speaker 1: 7:43

Okay.

Speaker 2: 7:43

And while it primarily focuses on ensuring the well-being of children, it indirectly supports carers by setting clear expectations for the level of care provided.

Speaker 1: 7:53

It's fascinating to see the sheer number of resources that are listed for child care providers.

Speaker 2: 7:58

Yes.

Speaker 1: 7:59

Everything from SIDES and kids to the Asthma Foundation to Cybersmart Kids. It's like a glimpse into this vast network of support that's available for those caring for children.

Speaker 2: 8:10

And what's really important to understand is that these resources exist even if you're not directly involved in child care.

Speaker 1: 8:15

Right.

Speaker 2: 8:16

It speaks to a broader societal awareness of the importance of child safety and well-being, and many of these organizations offer support and resources for families and carers as well. Okay, so it's a really valuable resource, even if you're not directly involved in child care.

Speaker 1: 8:29

That's good to know.

Speaker 2: 8:30

Yeah, and it's really encouraging to see that awareness growing, yeah, especially considering all the challenges that young carers face Right. These young individuals take on such incredible responsibilities.

Speaker 1: 8:40

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 8:41

You know they're balancing their caregiving roles with their education and their own personal lives. It's incredible.

Speaker 1: 8:46

Yeah, the Young Carer Bursary Program we talked about earlier really stood out to me.

Speaker 2: 8:50

Yes.

Speaker 1: 8:51

It's specifically designed to help young carers stay in school Right, which recognizes the immense pressure that they're under.

Speaker 2: 8:59

This program is so vital because it recognizes that young carers are statistically more likely to drop out of school due to their caregiving responsibilities.

Speaker 1: 9:08

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 9:09

So by easing that financial burden, yeah. It's really investing in their future and empowering them to break that cycle of disadvantage.

Speaker 1: 9:16

It's amazing how a program like that can have such a ripple effect, yeah, you know, not just for the young carer but for their future and even society as a whole.

Speaker 2: 9:24

Absolutely. It's about providing targeted support to address the unique challenges faced by young carers and recognizing their incredibly valuable contributions.

Speaker 1: 9:34

Yeah, it makes you wonder what other kinds of support might be helpful for these young carers. Yeah, what are some of the specific challenges they face that might not be as obvious?

Speaker 2: 9:43

Well, one significant challenge is the emotional toll of caregiving.

Speaker 1: 9:47

Oh, okay.

Speaker 2: 9:48

Young carers often struggle with feelings of isolation, anxiety and stress. They may also experience guilt or resentment.

Speaker 1: 9:56

Oh, wow.

Speaker 2: 9:56

As they try to balance their responsibilities with their own needs and desires.

Speaker 1: 10:00

That makes sense. They're still developing their coping mechanisms at that age, yeah, and the weight of these responsibilities can be immense. It's like they're carrying a burden that's far too heavy for their young shoulders.

Speaker 2: 10:12

Exactly, and this is where organizations like SANE Australia become even more important.

Speaker 1: 10:17

Okay.

Speaker 2: 10:17

Their resources and support groups aren't just for those with lived experience of mental illness.

Speaker 1: 10:22

Right.

Speaker 2: 10:22

They also extend to carers, including young carers.

Speaker 1: 10:25

That's wonderful to hear. So they provide a safe space for young carers to process their emotions, connect with others who understand what they're going through, and access tools to kind of manage their own well-being.

Speaker 2: 10:37

Precisely.

Speaker 1: 10:38

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 10:38

They recognize that young carers need support that is specifically tailored to their needs, and their programs are designed to really empower these young people to navigate the emotional challenges of caregiving.

Speaker 1: 10:51

You know, I remember reading in one of the sources about St Australia's online community forum.

Speaker 2: 10:57

Yes.

Speaker 1: 10:58

And it struck me as such an innovative way to provide support, especially for young people who are already so comfortable with technology.

Speaker 2: 11:05

That online forum is a fantastic example of how technology can be leveraged.

Speaker 1: 11:10

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 11:10

To provide accessible and convenient support. It's available 24-7.

Speaker 1: 11:14

Wow.

Speaker 2: 11:15

Allowing young carers to connect with others, share their experiences and access resources whenever they need them.

Speaker 1: 11:21

It's like having a virtual support group right in your pocket, always there when you need it. That can be a game changer for young carers who might feel isolated or hesitant to reach out for more traditional forms of support.

Speaker 2: 11:31

Exactly. It breaks down those geographical barriers and creates a real sense of community, which can be so powerful for these young people facing very similar challenges. And this speaks to a broader trend of utilizing technology to make support more accessible and responsive to the needs of these diverse populations to the needs of these diverse populations.

Speaker 1: 11:58

It's so inspiring to see how these organizations are constantly innovating and finding new ways to reach those who need help.

Speaker 2: 12:02

It really is. It's a testament to their dedication and understanding of the evolving needs of carers. They recognize that support can't be one size fits all. It needs to be adaptable, flexible and truly tailored to the individual.

Speaker 1: 12:16

Okay, so we've talked about government programs and nonprofit organizations, but what about the role of childcare centers in all of this? I mean they're kind of on the front lines of caring for children, so they must have some really unique insights into the needs of carers.

Speaker 2: 12:29

Absolutely, and the Explore and Develop source really gave us a glimpse into that world. They listed a whole array of resources specifically for child care providers, covering everything from child development and safety to very specific health issues.

Speaker 1: 12:45

Yeah, and I noticed they didn't just focus on the children's needs, they also addressed the challenges faced by the adults who are caring for them.

Speaker 2: 12:52

Yes, they linked to resources on managing finances. Wow, coping with family violence.

Speaker 1: 12:57

Gosh.

Speaker 2: 12:57

And even accessing mental health support for the carers themselves.

Speaker 1: 13:02

That's a really holistic approach.

Speaker 2: 13:04

It is.

Speaker 1: 13:05

It recognizes that interconnectedness of child well-being and carer well-being.

Speaker 2: 13:10

Right.

Speaker 1: 13:10

It's like they're saying we're here to support the whole family, not just the child.

Speaker 2: 13:14

Exactly. They understand that if a carer is struggling, it will inevitably impact their ability to provide quality care.

Speaker 1: 13:21

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 13:21

So supporting the carer ultimately benefits the child as well.

Speaker 1: 13:25

Makes perfect sense. It's a win-win situation, yeah, but I'm curious how does that support actually play out in a child care setting? Is it just about providing pamphlets and links to resources, or is there more to it?

Speaker 2: 13:37

It goes beyond just handing out information. Many child care centers really actively foster a culture of support.

Speaker 1: 13:42

Okay.

Speaker 2: 13:43

Encouraging open communication between the staff and the parents.

Speaker 1: 13:46

Right.

Speaker 2: 13:47

Building strong relationships within the community and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Speaker 1: 13:52

That's fantastic. So it's not just about the programs and services, but about that human element. Yeah, feeling connected, understood and valued.

Speaker 2: 14:01

Precisely, and that's something that applies to all carers, regardless of their age or the nature of their caring role.

Speaker 1: 14:07

Right.

Speaker 2: 14:07

It's about fostering a society that recognizes the importance of caregiving.

Speaker 1: 14:12

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 14:13

And provides the necessary support to actually make it sustainable.

Speaker 1: 14:21

And that brings us to a really crucial point navigating the complexities of this entire carer support system yes. You know, we've seen this incredible array of resources that are available, but accessing them can often feel like trying to navigate a maze.

Speaker 2: 14:32

That's a very valid concern.

Speaker 1: 14:34

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 14:35

While the breadth of resources is impressive, right, it can also be overwhelming, especially for someone who's already feeling stressed and overloaded.

Speaker 1: 14:42

It's like having all these puzzle pieces but not knowing how to put them together. Yeah, you might be eligible for certain benefits or services, but you don't even know that they exist Right, or you might know about them, but the application process is so complex you just give up.

Speaker 2: 15:01

Those are real barriers that many carers face, yeah, and it raises an important question how can we make the system more user friendly? Right, how can we ensure that carers actually have the information and support they need to access the services that they're entitled to?

Speaker 1: 15:12

It seems like there's a need for better coordination and communication between all these different service providers, maybe even like a centralized platform where carers can go to find all the relevant information and resources in one place.

Speaker 2: 15:24

Those are excellent ideas. It's about creating a more integrated and seamless experience for carers, making it easier for them to actually find the support they need without having to jump through all these hoops or navigate a complicated bureaucracy.

Speaker 1: 15:40

Right. It's also about empowering carers to advocate for themselves and their loved ones. Yes, you know ensuring that they have the knowledge and confidence to navigate the system effectively.

Speaker 2: 15:52

Absolutely. Knowledge is power, and when carers are informed about their rights and the available resources, they can better advocate for their needs and access the support that they deserve.

Speaker 1: 16:04

Speaking of empowering carers, one thing that struck me while going through all these sources is how often caregiving is portrayed as this incredibly selfless act. Right, and it is, of course.

Speaker 2: 16:16

It is.

Speaker 1: 16:16

But it's also a job, you know responsibility, and sometimes a really tough one.

Speaker 2: 16:20

That's such an important point.

Speaker 1: 16:22

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 16:22

Recognizing the challenges of caregiving doesn't diminish the love and dedication involved.

Speaker 1: 16:27

Right.

Speaker 2: 16:27

In fact, acknowledging the difficulties is crucial for ensuring that carers receive the support they need to continue providing care effectively.

Speaker 1: 16:36

Exactly. It's about recognizing that carers are human and they have limits. They need breaks, they need support and they need to know that it's okay to ask for help.

Speaker 2: 16:46

Yes, not just okay, but absolutely essential. And that's where the concept of respite care comes in.

Speaker 1: 16:53

Oh, okay.

Speaker 2: 16:54

It's about providing temporary relief for carers Right, Allowing them to take a break, recharge and attend to their own needs.

Speaker 1: 17:03

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 17:04

Carer Gateway, as we discussed earlier, offers respite care services, and it's something that more and more carers are recognizing as absolutely essential for their well-being.

Speaker 1: 17:14

It makes you wonder how many carers are out there struggling in silence, you know, feeling like they have to do it all on their own.

Speaker 2: 17:20

Right.

Speaker 1: 17:20

Maybe they don't even realize that help is available, or maybe they feel guilty about taking time for themselves.

Speaker 2: 17:26

That's a very real concern.

Speaker 1: 17:27

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 17:27

And it really highlights the need for greater awareness and education around carer support.

Speaker 1: 17:32

Right.

Speaker 2: 17:33

We need to normalize these conversations about the challenges of caregiving and break down the stigma associated with seeking help.

Speaker 1: 17:40

It's almost like we need a cultural shift in how we view caregiving. Instead of seeing it as a burden that individuals have to shoulder alone, we need to recognize it as a shared responsibility, a societal responsibility.

Speaker 2: 17:51

I couldn't agree more, and that shift really requires action on multiple fronts, from government policies and funding to community initiatives and even individual attitudes. It's about creating a support system that is truly comprehensive, accessible and responsive to the needs of carers.

Speaker 1: 18:12

You know, as we wrap up this deep dive, it strikes me that, while we've explored a wide range of resources and challenges, there's one perspective that we haven't fully considered.

Speaker 2: 18:22

Oh, I'm intrigued. What perspective are you thinking of?

Speaker 1: 18:25

Well, we've talked about the importance of supporting carers, but what about the people that they care for? What are their thoughts on the support system, and how does their well-being factor into the equation?

Speaker 2: 18:35

That's a brilliant point. It reminds us that caregiving is a two-way street. It's a relationship that involves both giving and receiving, and understanding the needs and perspectives of both sides of that equation is essential for creating a truly effective and compassionate care system.

Speaker 1: 18:52

Exactly. It's about recognizing that the well-being of the carer and the person they care for are completely interconnected.

Speaker 2: 18:59

Yes.

Speaker 1: 18:59

Supporting one ultimately supports the other, creating this positive cycle of care and well-being.

Speaker 2: 19:06

It's a reminder that this conversation doesn't end here. Yeah, there's always more to learn, more to explore and more to do to ensure that both carers and those they care for are supported, respected and empowered.

Speaker 1: 19:19

Yeah, it's like we've been focusing on one side of this whole equation and now we need to zoom out and see the bigger picture. You know, the carer's journey is so deeply intertwined with the experience of the person that they're caring for.

Speaker 2: 19:29

Absolutely. It's a symbiotic relationship, and understanding both perspectives is really crucial for creating a truly holistic and effective support system. Imagine if we could tap into the insights and lived experiences of the people receiving that care. What valuable perspectives they could offer.

Speaker 1: 19:47

Yeah, it's a reminder that caregiving isn't just about tasks and responsibilities. It's about that human connection, that empathy and understanding. I wonder what kind of resources or support systems exist specifically for those receiving care.

Speaker 2: 20:02

That's a great question and it really highlights an area where further exploration is definitely needed. You know, while there's a growing focus on supporting carers, we need to make sure that those receiving care also have a voice and access to resources that empower them to really actively participate in their own care journey.

Speaker 1: 20:20

It makes me think about the concept of person-centered care.

Speaker 2: 20:23

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 20:24

Where the individual's needs, preferences and goals are really at the forefront of everything Mm-hmm. Where the individual's needs, preferences and goals are really at the forefront of everything. Are there any initiatives or programs within the Australian system that specifically promote this kind of approach?

Speaker 2: 20:36

Well, there are definitely movements toward person-centered care within aged care and disability services. Okay, for example, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, or NDIS, emphasizes choice and control for people with disabilities, allowing them to tailor their support plans to their own individual needs and aspirations.

Speaker 1: 20:53

That sounds really promising.

Speaker 2: 20:54

It is?

Speaker 1: 20:55

It suggests a real shift away from that one-size-fits-all approach to care.

Speaker 2: 21:01

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 21:01

You know, recognizing the unique needs and desires of each individual.

Speaker 2: 21:05

Exactly. It's about empowering individuals to have a say in their own care and fostering a sense of agency and autonomy.

Speaker 1: 21:12

Right.

Speaker 2: 21:13

And you know, this shift really benefits both the person receiving the care and the carer, as it promotes collaboration, better communication and a shared understanding of goals.

Speaker 1: 21:24

So it seems like there's a growing recognition of the importance of including both the carers and those they care for in shaping this entire support system.

Speaker 2: 21:33

Yes, and that recognition is so essential for creating a truly effective and compassionate care ecosystem. It's about fostering a much more collaborative approach, where carers and those they care for can work together with the support of the wider community to really create a care experience that is both fulfilling and sustainable.

Speaker 1: 21:51

You know, as we wrap up this deep dive into the world of care and support, I'm left with a sense of hope and inspiration.

Speaker 2: 21:58

Me too.

Speaker 1: 21:58

You know, despite the challenges, there's so much good work being done and a real commitment to actually improving the lives of carers and those they care for.

Speaker 2: 22:08

I wholeheartedly agree. Yeah, it's been a fascinating exploration and I'm really struck by the dedication the innovation and the compassion that just permeates this entire field.

Speaker 1: 22:18

Yeah, We've really seen how the system is evolving you know, recognizing the multifaceted needs of carers and embracing all these new approaches to support and empowerment Absolutely, and it's clear that this is an ongoing journey with ongoing opportunities for growth and improvement and collaboration.

Speaker 2: 22:35

I think the key takeaway for our listeners is this the world of care support is complex and ever changing.

Speaker 1: 22:41

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 22:41

But within that complexity lies a wealth of resources, a network of really dedicated individuals and organizations, and a shared commitment to creating a society that truly values and supports caregiving in all its forms.

Speaker 1: 22:54

Beautifully said and remember this deep dive is just the beginning, you know. We encourage you to explore further, yes, ask questions and really advocate for the kind of support system that truly meets the needs of both carers and those they care for. After all, it's a conversation that affects us all, either directly or indirectly, as we navigate this journey of life and care for those we love.