Boost for respite

EMPLOYED people caring for older relatives and friends will receive more support.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the Australian Government would provide $134,528 for a respite service for the Berwick Day Club extension as part of Villa Maria, Berwick.
“Respite for employed carers of frail older people will provide flexible respite options for primary carers who work or are seeking to work, thereby assisting them in balancing their caring and work responsibilities,” Mr Wood said. “This project will provide 10 carers with centrebased respite for eight hours a day from Monday to Friday and four hours a day on Saturday and Sunday.
“The service will also provide an activities program and will cater for emergency and unplanned respite.”
Mr Wood said people who voluntarily cared for older people, usually family or friends, made a great contribution to society, but also made a lot of sacrifices.
“The flexible and innovative employed carer respite supported by this new funding will make a big difference to many people,” he said.