As part of the ‘Who Cares for the Carer Campaign’, Hunter New England Health is holding two information sessions for carers – one at the Roxy Theatre, Bingara on Tuesday 27 November and the other at Warialda Bowling Club on Wednesday 28 November.

The sessions will start at 9.30am and conclude at 1.30pm following lunch, on both days, and form part of a two-day education forum for service providers in the Gwydir Shire.

"The sessions aim to provide knowledge and support for members of the Gwydir Shire and surrounding areas who wish to learn more about recognising the need for self-care and self-care strategies," said Angela Stones, Project Officer for the Gwydir Shire Palliative Partnerships.

Angela is very pleased to welcome back to the area Mr Ian Nutley, General Manager and Training Officer for Burstow Funerals in Toowoomba, after previously conducting a very successful workshop on Spirituality, Grief and Loss earlier this year.

Ms Faye Knight, Hunter New England Health social worker for Bingara and Warialda, will also be presenting on the day, followed by Susan St Clair from the Commonwealth Carer Respite Service.

According to Carers NSW, carers are usually family members who provide support to children or adults who have a disability, mental health problem, chronic condition or who are frail aged. The carers can also be friends or neighbours.

Carers may provide care for a few hours a week or all day every day. Some carers are eligible for government benefits, while others are employed or have a private income.

The sessions are free of charge and morning tea and lunch will be included. Respite is also available for those carers who are unable to leave their loved ones alone. This can be arranged by contacting Kris Booby at Commonwealth Carer Respite on 6792 2338.

If you want to know more about way to care for yourself in your caring role and about how to recognise and develop strategies to do this, please come and join us for this community presentation.

Angela requests that anyone who wishes to attend, please contact her on 0427 231 567 by Friday 16 November, to register their interest. Registration will also assist with catering.