For many of our clients, the shock of a diagnosis is the beginning of many medical appointments, and a journey into an unknown world of systems, providers and information. This can be very overwhelming. The carer or support network for the client, is also on this journey. To support them with Specialist Palliative Care at home, PHH work alongside the clients and their carers, along with their GP and/or specialist medical teams to achieve their goals of care. 

Knowledge = Empowerment

In 2025, we ran three carer education sessions that saw 43 carers attend from 43 families who are current clients. It is not easy for carers to leave or put things in place to take time out from their caring role, therefore, meeting their needs is crucial. This year, the feedback suggested that we were able to deliver and meet the needs of the carers with 100% of respondents rating it useful or very useful. The other options were average or poor.  

The content of the session aims to aid the carer to be more equipped to support their loved one at home. These include:

• Information about medical, nursing and allied health support 

• Information about Palliative Care including advance care planning

• Explanation of possible symptoms and medications

• The importance of self-care

• Introduction to music therapy

• Practical supports like in home respite

• Meeting the team

“Knowing support is there is a very big help.”

From the feedback, it was apparent that the value came not only from the information gained but the value in sharing stories and knowing that other people were going through similar challenges. The support they felt in the session was a connection to the PHH Team and the other carers in the room. In the words of one wise carer who attended, “I would recommend this program, you can’t do it all on your own.” 

If you would be interested in knowing more about these education sessions, please speak to your nominated Counsellor Case worker or call 5973 2400.