More support needs to be provided to carers and families of those with special needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
At what’s already a difficult time as Victorians self-isolate to stop the spread of COVID-19, with day care programs and other services closed, it’s pushing families to breaking point as they have lost that critical break time that allowed them to recharge the batteries.
With all providers having to end group sessions, some have moved to establish more one-on-one sessions for those most in need of support, but it appears some providers are offering little or no supports at all to those most in need after cancelling group sessions.
Respite is an essential service. It supports some of the most vulnerable people in our community. While every precaution must be taken, we need a consistent approach that allows carers and families to cope.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Carers and Disability, Tim Bull:
These are challenging times for all of us, but with group day care and group therapy sessions cancelled for those with special needs, it puts an incredibly increased workload on our carers who need respite.
They do a wonderful job looking after loved ones and the most vulnerable people in our community, but they will need support in this time of increasing demand.
We cannot increase the pressure and time commitments on our carers without offering a consistent approach to respite for those who need it.
