A volunteer-run service aimed at supporting carers of people with mental health issues is expanding to Kyneton.
PS My Family Matters, which was started in Gisborne by mothers Tamara Wilson and Louise Hunter in 2014, seeks to support people caring for family members with mental health issues.
The organisation already runs monthly coffee sessions in Gisborne and Romsey, providing carers with a chance to debrief and meet other carers.
They also assist with education and strategies to help carers cope in difficult times.
PS My Family Matters Kyneton volunteer co-ordinator Therese Murphy said demand for the support service in the town had grown in recent years, resulting in a Kyneton branch being launched last week.
“There are already a number of carers in the Kyneton area and the need for the service had grown with an increase in referrals asking for support for carers in the region. These referrals came from a number of different agencies in the community,” she said.
“This service is important because of the scarcity of support for carers in the Macedon Ranges.”
Ms Murphy said PS My Family Matters also offered carers a chance to attend social events for a much-needed break.
“This is important for carers as they often develop their own mental health concerns due to their caring responsibilities as there is no time to look after themselves,” she said.
Details: www.psmfm.org.au
