Language no barrier when caring for a loved one

Language should be no barrier when it comes to caring for a loved one.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Multicultural Health team helped more than 50 community members from different cultures better understand the health and social services available to them at a Carers Week event at Auburn Centre for Communitylast Friday.

Healthcare interpreters were on hand to assist as carers were given tips for navigating the system, with dementia and mental health issues being the two most popular topics. 

WSLHD Multicultural Access project officer Sora Machida said she organised the event as language can be a significant hurdle for migrant and refugee carers.

“We provided Arabic, Dari and Chinese interpreters who translated any written and verbal information to the community,” Sora said.

“More than 25 people had their blood pressure checked and were advised to see their GP for any blood pressure or health concerns.”

This health session was called Care2Care and was a collaboration between WSLHD and other government agencies, which will continue in 2020 and reach more communities.

The Carers Week activities continued at Auburn Hospital with a cake stall to raise money for carer beds.

The stall raised $556 and the hospital is aiming to purchase 10 carer beds at a cost of $1730 each, which will mainly be used in the children’s ward for parents to stay overnight.

To donate specifically to the carer bed fundraiser at Auburn Hospital, please contact the general manager’s office at WSLHD-WAGM@health.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 639 037.

For further information about carers programs click here or specific information for carers visit Carers Gateway.