12 September 2011
THE development of a National Carer Strategy and the call for a National Disability Insurance Scheme saw carers across the region voicing their concerns at a workshop held recently.
Newly-instated Senator Bridget McKenzie addressed concerns by carers at a workshop organised by disability services provider, BrainLink at the Traralgon Neighbourhood House last week .
BrainLink chief executive Sharon Strugnell who was present at the forum, said it was crucial for regional and rural carers to have the opportunity to gain some understanding on “navigating through the disability system”.
“It’s an opportunity for people in the same situation to share the difficulties they face in their caring roles,” Ms Strugnell said.
“Regional Victorians are sometimes not as well looked after as (their counterparts) the city.
“So it’s important for them to give them that support on how to access and find the services they need, which is not always easy.”
Ms Strugnell said it was important for the locals to “keep the pressure” on the government for change to take place quickly.
“The more we can get local members of parliament to hear what people have to say, the more they walk in the shoes of someone in a caring role,” she said.
“I’m thrilled to hear the local politicians are passionate about the region and are looking at improving the disability sector.
“The best voices are the voices of the people… some of the carers are very vocal and we’re not going to stop until we see change happen.”
The news of the introduction of a NDIS by the Federal Government was welcomed by the BrainLink chief executive, but she said it was important to continue to lobby the government to ensure greater support for carers.
