Settlement Guide: 5 ways to support CALD carers

Over half a million carers were born outside Australia or migrated here. Cultural awareness is important in working with and supporting carers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. What services are available for carers?

Multi-Ethnic Diverse Group People Circle Variation Concept Source: Getty Images

1. Access to carer support groups

Trying to access services can be very difficult for carers who don’t speak English. There are many different culturally and linguistically specific carer support groups across the country.

Source: Getty Images/Tom Merton

2. Access to counselling

Carers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds can suffer social isolation, language and cultural barriers and often don’t seek help. There are counselling services to help carers explore ways to deal with difficult situations and bring balance to their lives.

Counselling Session Source: Getty Images/Richard Clark

3. Access to respite and day programs

If the person is being cared for has access to day programs or other services that can lower the impact on the carer. Carer Support has a range of options to assist carers in the community who speak a language other than English.

Source: Getty Images/Andersen Ross

4. Assistance for carers from Centrelink

Carers who provide daily care for children or adults may be entitled to an allowance of up to $123.50 per fortnight. Other payments and supplements may be accessed depending on eligibility through Centrelink.

A woman leaves a Centrelink branch in Melbourne, Wednesday, May 14, 2014. Source: AAP

5. Access to language resources and interpretation services

Resources are available in several languages from Carers Australia. If an interpreter is required, the Translating and Interpreting Service can be contacted on 13 14 50. A carer support officer specialising in working with people from diverse backgrounds can also provide assistance.

Source: Getty Images

More information is available from Carers Australia or phone [phone].