Helping the Sydney community with relationships, parenting, ageing, disability, pastoral services and mental wellbeing.
Acknowledging the need to assist the 2.65 million unpaid carers in Australia, the Australian Government launched Carer Gateway in 2015, providing free services and support for those who care for a family member or friend with a disability, a medical condition, mental illness, or who is frail due to age.
Three of these services are managed by CatholicCare Sydney – the Carer Gateway Counselling Service, the Carer Gateway Facebook Page, and the Community Forum.
The Carer Gateway Counselling Service provides telephone and online-based support offering evidence-based therapy and online self-care fact sheets.
The Facebook page is monitored by CatholicCare’s skilled moderators, ensuring a safe and respectful community for those seeking support.
The Community Forum is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides an online connection for carers, reducing their isolation and improving wellbeing. Monitored by CatholicCare moderators with training in mental health first aid, the Forum is safe and anonymous, providing the opportunity to connect with people in similar situations and to receive real-life assistance, support, and empathy.
CatholicCare has a team of moderators working with the Carer Gateway Community Forum, including Thomas (pseudonyms used to protect the privacy of all involved with the Forum), a man tasked with keeping an eye not only on the community but also on the technical side of things, ensuring discussions are safe and respectful.
“Moderating communities requires great attention to detail,” says Thomas.
“Our job is also a combination of making sure things run smoothly on the Forum, noticing carers that need support, or intervening if a conversation becomes disrespectful or if someone appears to be feeling unsafe.”
“There are also lots of simple and beautiful moments – those who come not knowing who to talk to, or afraid to admit their frustrations and fears who find the anonymity of the forum community allows them to voice their true feelings for the first time.”
To learn more or visit the Forum please go to https://forum.carergateway.gov.au/s/
As we continue to strengthen families, connect communities, and promote dignity, we ask for your support to make our vision a reality. Keep up to date with CatholicCare Sydney by signing up for Pathways magazine or making a donation today.
