Coming off the back of Harmony Week, which celebrates the rich diversity in Australia, the local Multicultural Carers Group is hoping to use the opportunity to welcome more members into the fold.
A collaboration between the Brotherhood of St Laurence and the Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House, the group was formed in December last year to address the unique challenges faced by local carers from different backgrounds.
The group now supports close to 20 carers at its monthly meetings.
According to the Brotherhood of St Laurence community capacity building lead Hang Nguyen, being part of a multicultural group like this means having a community that listens, understands, and supports you at all times.
“Brimbank is a very diverse and multicultural area and so we saw a need for something like this,” Ms Nguyen said.
“We heard from local carers and they wanted a supportive and culturally safe space for them to come along to which would also help them relax.”
During the group’s meet-ups, carers often experience respite and a renewed sense of self-care through mindfulness, cultural celebrations, art therapy, and relaxation activities.
The peer support can also reduce feelings of isolation in members, while gaining practical tools to navigate their caregiving journey.
“People who join will have a chance to connect with other local carers,” Ms Nguyen said.
“We would like for this is to be welcoming group for them, where we can also connect them with carer services to ensure all their needs are met as well.”
Details: coordinator@kcnh.org.au
