Friends, Family & Carers Forum

[mhsw]

Hello

I am currently in the process of writing a proposal for a Pilot Tele Support Group for carers of some one with a mentalillness in Victoria... Does any one know of any agency that might offer such a program ? 

[CherryBomb]

Hi @mhsw,

Can you tell us a bit more about the tele support group? We might be able to point out programs once we know a bit more.

Sounds like a great idea from you've told us so far. 

[mhsw]

Hi 

thank you for the reply.  I have expressed an interest to write a grant proposal for running support groups for carers in regional vic as a trial project.  My prelim thinking is to run weekly - telephone on skype based group sessions (i could use Zoom softtware as well).  I am considering groups for supporting carers dealing with BPD, Bipolar and depression.  Also, it is a means of enabling public to access our Carer Education workshops and Seminars in a cost effective way. 

I know that some rural practices are offering consultation with Psychiatrists via Skype - My friend accessed these in NSW.

In my current planning, i am considering a model where individuals come together for a  a tele conference facility at a local community centre (a group where possible)  or access from the privacy of their own home. I could run some group ACT or Mindfulness programs quite effectively... 

appreicate some suggestions as i have lbeen advised that funding may be available for a pilot initiative, including to buy some initial infrastructure support such as PC and effective data connectivity at both ends.

[Appleblossom]

Is CarersVictoria a possibility?

[Mosaic]

Thanks for sharing a bit more about your idea for a tele support group. I know most carers are busy and can sometimesfind it hard to get out and about and attend support groups etc face-to-face, so there is a lot of merit to your idea and certainly would help to fill a gap in the carers community. I can think of a couple of potential organisations I know of that might be a good lead for you...

Have you heard of ARAFMI? In Victoria this is operated by MIND Australia. They run a range of programs and support options for carers of people with mental illness.

Also - BPD Family offer online support to families dealing with BPD.

GROW Victoria are another organisation that run support groups for mental illness. I believe they offer only face-to-face support but perhaps they'd be interested in hearing more about your idea.

Hope this helps. Take care.