Care for Carers

Caring for Carers: Insights from National Carers Week

In this panel discussion recorded on 14 October, 2024, the opening day of National Carers Week, we bring together a diverse group of experts and advocates who shed light on the challenges and joys of caregiving. Hosted by Janson Hews, the panel includes Elena Katrakis, CEO of Carers NSW, and Jacqueline de Mamiel, Young Carer Voice Lead at Little Dreamers Australia.
Elena, with her extensive experience in advocating for vulnerable communities, shares insights on the evolving role of carers and the systemic support needed. Jacqueline, a young carer herself, offers a unique perspective on the balancing act between care responsibilities and her own ambitions, while highlighting the importance of support systems for young carers across Australia.
Key takeaways include:
The profound honour of caring for those who once cared for us
The complexities of caregiving, both the positives and the challenges
The realities of caregiving and the need for better resources
The importance of support networks
Listen to this powerful discussion to hear stories, advice, and reflections that are integral to understanding the critical role of carers in our communities. 
The Care for Carers podcast is produced by the Carers Inclusion & Diversity Group at the Parliament of NSW. The Carers group aims to celebrate, educate and highlight the complex responsibilities that come with caring for someone with a mental illness, disability or for an older person.

How can carers empower self-advocacy?

In this episode, Janson Hews is joined by Stacy Thomas, Senior Manager Media & Communications, who cares for her son with a rare genetic condition.
Stacy explains the importance of teaching her son to advocate for himself through self-expression, asking questions and having an inquiring mind. Stacy and Janson also discuss what makes someone a good carer and the intersectionality of work, friends and caring.  
Stacy shares powerful insights on: 
The importance of teaching her son self-advocacy through self-expression and curiosity
How caregiving intersects with work, friendships, and daily life
The delicate balancing act of juggling caregiving responsibilities
“I think it's like juggling. All the balls are in the air and at some point, you know, you may drop one here or there. I guess it's, you know, being forgiving of yourself, of the situation, knowing it's not permanent.” 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating caregiving, work-life balance, and personal growth.
“You give but little of yourself when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself, that you truly give.” 
The Care for Carers podcast is produced by the Carers Inclusion & Diversity Group at the Parliament of NSW. The Carers group aims to celebrate, educate and highlight the complex responsibilities that come with caring for someone with a mental illness, disability or for an older person.

How can leaders make a difference to carers?

Join Paul Robinson, Communications Specialist, in conversation with Janson Hews, Director of Communications as Paul shares how he navigates caring for his two sisters whilst being faced with a new caring challenge in his family.
Paul and Janson demystify the assumptions about being a carer and how leaders can make a difference to employees who are carers. Paul also emphasises the need for people to have exposure to those with all levels of abilities, just like Tom Cruise in Rain Man.  
In this heartfelt conversation, Paul and Janson discuss: 
How to shift perspectives about caregiving and the unseen burden it brings 
The crucial role that leaders can play in supporting employees who are carers 
A powerful reminder that “... one of the biggest things that any leader can keep in mind is that this person is going through hell right now. So, treat them like you want to be treated. And remember, tomorrow it could be you.” 
If you're a leader, caregiver, or simply someone who wants to understand more about how to support those who care for others, this episode is a must-listen. 
The Care for Carers podcast is produced by the Carers Inclusion & Diversity Group at the Parliament of NSW. The Carers group aims to celebrate, educate and highlight the complex responsibilities that come with caring for someone with a mental illness, disability or for an older person.

What does it mean to be a 'young carer'?

Madeleine Buchner, the founder and CEO of Little Dreamers, joins Care for Carers in our first episode, hosted by Janson Hews, Director of Communications, Engagement & Education of the Parliament of New South Wales and Parliamentary Executive Sponsor of the Carers Inclusion and Diversity Group.  
Madeleine started Little Dreamers when she was nine years old, and it has now grown to be the leading Young Carer Organisation in Australia. Madeleine began as a carer when she was four years old to her younger brother who has a range of chronic health conditions. At the age of fourteen, Madeleine found herself thrust into another carers’ role, this time for her mum who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Madeleine has also been a carer for her grandmother.
Madeleine and Janson discuss the difficulties of intergenerational care, the unique experiences of young carers, chronic to-do lists, digital literacy, and the importance of legislative change.   
The Care for Carers podcast is produced by the Carers Inclusion & Diversity Group at the Parliament of NSW. The Carers group aims to celebrate, educate and highlight the complex responsibilities that come with caring for someone with a mental illness, disability or for an older person.