Carer Assist has Carer Advocates who provide individual support services and education and training for carers and families of someone with a mental illness within the boundaries of three Area Health Services:

Sydney South West AHS – Offices currently located in Belmore, Campbelltown and Moss Vale

Hunter/New England AHS – Offices currently located in Newcastle, Tamworth, Armidale, Taree and Warialda.

Greater Southern AHS – Offices currently located in Queanbeyan, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Goulburn, Moruya and Albury.

The Carer Advocates work together with Area Health Services, other non- government organizations, community health organisations and any other organisations or groups that are involved in carer’s life.

Drop-in centres and resource libraries are being set up in each area where carers and families can access information or meet other carers.

What Services are available in these areas?

Carer Advocates in your area work part time and provide carers of people with a mental illness with:

Information: The provision of information about mental illness, services and the mental health system is essential to ensure that carers' needs are met and to assist them to better care for their friend or relative.

Education: An important aspect of the Carer Advocate's role is to provide education to empower carers so that their needs can be met.

This is on a one to one basis or through our educational programs such as "Well Ways" - helping families and friends to find better ways.

Advocacy: Where appropriate, they advocate on behalf of carers to ensure that the carers have access to information and services that they require.

Support: The Carer Advocate provide emotional support both over the telephone and face to face.