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 - 3pm 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 Centre is open weekdays 8am til 4pm and OCCASIONAL SATURDAYS 10am til 3pm.

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.