Gippsland Lakes Complete Health has celebrated the tireless and passionate contribution that carers make to our local community, as part of 2018 National Carers Week (14 to 20 October).

Carers make an enormous contribution to our communities as well as our national economy, which is why National Carers Week is held annually to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution of these 2.7 million Australians. If all carers decided to stop performing their caring role, it would cost the country $60.3 billion per year to replace those supports – that’s over $1 billion per week! Anyone at any time can become a carer, so National Carers Week is an opportunity to raise community awareness about the diversity of these individuals and the importance of their roles.

On Thursday 18 October, GLCH hosted a ‘thank you’ BBQ and raffle at their Lakes Entrance location, in appreciation for, and to help raise awareness of carers of young adults with additional needs.

In attendance were members of GLCH’s weekly social group, ‘The Lounge Crew’, and their family members.

The Lounge Crew is a social group for people with different abilities who are aged between 20 to 45 years. The Crew meets up twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays to enjoy activities and experiences such as mini golf challenges, movie afternoons, exploring local bushland and coastal areas, and coffee and lunch dates.

Angela Ellis, Executive Manager, Community Health Services at GLCH says, “This social group has been running for five years now, with three of the young men attending since the program launched in 2013. We’re always excited to be able to celebrate the valuable contribution of carers, so this event was a great way to do so.”

If you or someone you know would like to join or find out more about The Lounge Crew, phone GLCH on 5155 8370.