National Carers Week recognises Blue Mountains carers

National Carers Week is a timely opportunity for us all to acknowledge the outstanding contribution unpaid carers make to our community.

This year, National Carers Week will run from 13 to 19 October. There are a variety of local events planned between 9 and 25 October for Blue Mountains’ carers.

“Anyone can become a carer at any time,” Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said. “There are over 2.7 million carers in Australia, providing 36 million hours of care and support every week to a family member or friend.

“In the Blue Mountains alone there are more than 8,700 carers. This accounts for 13% of the population, meaning the Blue Mountains has a higher proportion than average of people who provide unpaid care either to family members or others.

“National Carers Week is an opportunity for us to raise awareness about the diversity of carers and their caring roles, and to offer them some well-deserved recognition.”

Our program of events for National Carers Week offers a range of activities to provide respite and entertainment including a movie screening, a music and movement class, an art talk, a community café, an indigenous celebration, free health checks, a falls prevention workshop, a pamper afternoon, a music concert, and a mystery bus tour.

Blue Mountains City Council is providing this program for carers with the assistance of contributing Blue Mountains’ community organisations. 

For anyone who requires respite in order to participate in these activities, you can contact the Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre (CRCC) Nepean on 1800 052 222. 

For more information and the full list of activities download the program.