Carer Support Program
Acknowledging and supporting carers (parents and otherwise) in their caring role.
The Carer Support Program at the Children's Hospital at Westmead aims to:
- Provide a strong and visible presence of carer/parent support in the hospital and community
- Enhance the responsiveness of CHW to the needs of parents and carers of children
- Provide practical support to assist all parents and carers in accessing appropriate services
Computer access for parents
The Carer Support Program now offers computer and internet access to parents and carers. The computer is available in the Parent and Carer Resource Centre. It is only available at times when the Centre is staffed by a volunteer, usually 10am - 4pm weekdays and 10am - 2pm Saturdays.
Driver Reviver Room
The Driver Reviver room is a place where parents and carers can take a nap before driving home. It is only available to parents and carers of children who are attending outpatients appointments. Priority will be given to those who have the furthest distance to travel. Interested parents and carers must book in at the Parent and Carer Resource Centre. Bookings can be made in advance.
The Parent and Carer Resource Centre
The Parent & Carer Resource Centre is the main activity of the Carer Support Program.
The Centre has been designed by parents for parents. It provides a non-clinical, homely environment where parents and carers can take a break.
The Centre is staffed by a team of fantastic volunteers who are dedicated to providing a friendly atmosphere and a listening ear.
What's Available?
The services available for parents and carers include:
- tea and coffee facilities
- microwave
- a book exchange
- information about carer services
- information about the local area and public transport
- computer and internet access
- access to the Driver Reviver Room
- daily newspapers and other reading materials
We will endeavour to respond to any query or request. The Centre's services are free of charge.
The Parent & Carer Resource Centre is located on Level 2 of the hospital. It is around the corner from the Chemist and opposite the Kidshealth bookshop. Phone: 9845 0580 or 9845 3590.
Carers at Kids Newsletter
Our newsletter is here. Through our newsletter we are aiming to keep carers of kids up to date with new information, share your stories and provide useful tips from other parents and carers.
We will explore some of our common experiences, but also look at ideas, services and suggestions that might help your individual circumstance.
We want to hear from you!
We would like to be able to share your stories, experience and knowledge. If you have something to say, we are listening.
Give us a call on 9845 3590, email kellyb1@chw.edu.au or speak to a volunteer in the Parent and Carer Resource Centre (they will take your details and we will get back to you).
Opening Times
- Mon 8am-4:30pm
- Tues 8:30am-8pm
- Wed 8am-5pm
- Thurs 8am-8pm
- Fri 8am-8pm
- Sat 10am-2pm
(This schedule may change for special events or staff/ volunteer availability.)
This document was updated on Thursday, 4 February 2010.
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