The latest news from Arafmi
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Irene Clelland
CEO Arafmi
Hello everyone,
I’m writing to you this month from Canada, where I’m sharing ideas to better support mental health carers with Canadian counterparts and the Canadian Mental Health Commission. I’m telling them all about our report At What Cost? The experiences of unpaid mental health carers in Queensland 2023 – 2024 and our efforts to ensure policy makers and funders know the challenges faced by mental health carers. I’ll be back in a couple of weeks and will have a full update for you in the September newsletter.
Which reminds me, again, how quickly this year is slipping by and, therefore, how close the Queensland election is. It’s set for October 26, and the campaign in the weeks beforehand is one of the best times for us to put policy ideas in front of those who want to lead our state.
I’ve begun meeting state and federal MPs to talk about the priorities of mental heath carers and will have more meetings in the weeks ahead. But this is also a chance for you, as a mental health carer, to put your needs on the agenda. Candidates are already out door-knocking and holding stalls at shopping centres and train stations. If you want to let them know what mental health carers need, here are some ideas – talking points for you to use:
- Ask: Have you given any thought to policies that may assist mental health carers?
- Tell them: It is estimated that 1 in 9 people are caring for someone experiencing mental ill-health
- Mental health carers need support themselves, including more financial assistance and more
respite - Mental health carers need to be included in treatment plans, implementation and discharge strategies for the person they care for.
Next month, we’ll have a letter template for you to send to your local MP, candidates, and the party leaders. The more they hear from mental health carers, the more powerful our message is. But if this isn’t something you feel you can do, don’t worry – Arafmi is doing it for you.
Have a great month,
Irene.
Highlighting Young Carers
Who is a young carer?
A young carer is anyone under 25 who supports a family member, kin, or friend with mental ill-health. They may share responsibilities with others or be the sole carer.
Key Facts:
- about 10% of young people aged 15-25 in Australia are carers
- approximately 6% of all Australians under 26 are carers
- 17% of all carers in Australia are under 26.
Young Carers: Challenges and Support
One of the biggest issues is that young carers often don't recognise themselves as carers, seeing their responsibilities as just a normal part of life. Other key challenges they face include:
- Health: Physical and mental health can suffer due to stress, lack of sleep, and emotional strain
- Social Life: Caring duties can lead to isolation and limited social interaction
- Family Relationships: These can become strained, especially during adolescence
- Financial Security: Limited access to employment or Centrelink payments
- Education: Many miss school and struggle with homework, affecting future employment opportunities.
We understand the importance of identifying young carers and ensuring they are supported and provided with relevant information as early as possible.
To assist with this we have developed a statewide Young Carer Network. This brings organisations together to discuss young carers' needs, share information and consider how to work together to raise awareness of young carers and programs and supports.
Network members include Carers QLD, Wellways Carer Gateway, Little Dreamers, Eating Disorders Queensland and the Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI), Kookaburra Kids and Mind Blank. These network meetings are now being held bi-monthly and will be important in making a difference for young carers now and in the future.
In 2021 Arafmi and Little Dreamers engaged Griffith University to research the needs of Young Carers in Australia. This highlighted many of the issues Young Carers face and has assisted us in considering areas for advocacy and development.
Upcoming Program: Youth emotional-CPR
Youth eCPR (for ages 18 - 25) is a profound process of reclaiming our Connection (to self and others), embodying emPowerment and ultimately feeling Revitalised in these uncertain times.
While eCPR trains us to assist others through crisis and become better listeners and supporters, it also lays a foundation for our own healing and wellness.
Free Workshop Details
- Dates: 26-27 September, 10:00am-4:00pm
- Format: 12-hour interactive training, online and face-to-face in Fortitude Valley
- Extras: Lunch and snacks, a gift and access to an ongoing support group.
Contact the Carer Support Team to express your interest.
Meet the Youth e-CPR Trainers
Tanya Boge
Tanya Boge, DipCouns, BHSC, Certified eCPR Trainer, is dedicated to making a positive impact in the community and is passionate about supporting those affected by mental health challenges. With a Bachelor of Human Services focusing on Child, Youth, and Families, Tanya uses her personal experience as a young carer to connect, educate, and inspire. As a Carer Support Coordinator at Arafmi, she provides essential support for carers, applying Emotional CPR in both her personal and professional life.
Anna Armstrong
Anna Armstrong, DipMus, DipMusBus, BMus, Certified eCPR Trainer, is a professional musician, singer/songwriter, and strings player with over 10 years of experience teaching music to children, youth, and adults. She applies Emotional CPR in the music industry, focusing on mental health in the creative arts community.
Important Info
Reminder to complete Arafmi’s Annual
Carer Survey
There is one more week to share your thoughts and go into the draw for one of 10 x $100 vouchers.
This year’s survey seeks your feedback on the kinds of services, information, and events that support your caring role and personal wellbeing. We also want to know if you're interested in joining Arafmi’s growing advocacy efforts and building your own advocacy skills.
The survey will close on 9 August. If you need help completing it, please contact the Carer Support Team on 1300 554 660.
Nerida Leighton
Carer Gateway Senior Respite Coordinator
Arafmi Staff Profile: Nerida Leighton, Carer Gateway Senior Respite Coordinator
Introducing Nerida Leighton who has recently joined Arafmi to assist carers through Carer Gateway to access our beautiful Carer Respite Hub. Carers who are registered with Carer Gateway can access many helpful services such as free counselling and tailored support packages. They also refer people to our Carer Respite Hub, which is a tranquil and healing environment for carers to enjoy overnight stays where they can relax and re-energise.
A recent highlight has been a mother and daughter who came for a weekend to celebrate the daughter’s 11th birthday. They care for an older sibling, so this was an opportunity for mother and daughter to be pampered, connect and celebrate!
The photo to the left (bottom) shows the daughter's room before she arrived for her birthday weekend.
What's in the News
Each month explore a selection of articles we've curated especially for you.
Advocacy Team Update
At What Cost Webinars
Thank you to everyone who attended our two webinars in July to discuss our report, At What Cost? The Experiences of Unpaid Mental Health Carers in Queensland 2023-2024.
Over 50 participants heard firsthand from Sue Goodwin, our Lived Experience Advocacy Lead and the report's author. Sue shared insights from months of consultations with mental health carers across Queensland, highlighting their needs and challenges. The report identifies six key action areas that will guide Arafmi's advocacy work.
Join us at the Carer Forum in October for more discussions on the report and to share your views on priorities and actions. In the meantime, we welcome your feedback. Please click the survey button to share your ideas.
Carer Gateway Networking Breakfast
Arafmi's Sue Goodwin, Lived Experience Advocacy Lead and Alex Tyson, General Manager Carer Program and Advocacy attended a networking breakfast run by Wellways Carer Gateway as part of Pride Week.
In addition to the opportunity to network with people from other community organisations, a presentation was given by CJ Thom from Queensland Council for LGBTQIA+ Health about the organisation’s work in supporting the health and wellbeing of their community. An important takeaway was that if we are going to be good allies for the LQBTQIA+ community, we need to do the “heavy lifting” to educate ourselves, rather than expecting community members to always be the ones educating the wider public.
A valuable resource, the Queensland Council for LGTQIA+ Health Language Guide, was provided. It includes updated LGBTIQ+ Sistergirl and Brotherboy language and terminology. To download a copy, click the link below, search for the resources section (near the bottom) and then find the QC Language Guidelines.
NAIDOC 2024
Arafmi held a stall at the Musgrave NAIDOC family fun day in Brisbane on 12 July. This event provided Arafmi with the opportunity to engage with First Nations community, allies and stakeholders on a more meaningful level.
During the event we asked people to contribute their thoughts on a canvas (pictured) asking 'what is another word for carer? Some of the words that were shared with us were: Auntie, shadow, supporter and Grannies. We hope to use these words to better shape understanding of the different ways to describe carers. Thank you to all who came and visited our stall.
Support Coordination Team Update
Team Building Day
The Support Coordination Team enjoyed a Brisbane River City Cruise on 25 July complete with historical commentary and team-building activities. After docking at Albion, they feasted on a delicious steak, spuds and salad lunch at Breakfast Creek Hotel and discussed client issues and NDIS concerns. It was a fantastic team bonding day, enjoyed by all who attended. This is a once a year opportunity for the Support Coordination Team to get together, and share their experiences in supporting people manage their NDIS plans and complex needs.
Carer Support Update
Regional Update
Arafmi's Regional Coordinator Gillian (pictured below third from right) has been busy enhancing support options for carers in regional areas. Here are some of the latest developments:
Atherton: A new Coffee Connect social support group is starting on 27 August in the lovely town of Atherton up on the Tablelands in North Queensland. Our local volunteer Karen, who completed facilitation training in June, will lead the group.
Ipswich: The Ipswich Support Group has moved locations. Carers can now meet monthly in the bright, modern meeting rooms at Ipswich Central Library with great amenities and 3-hour free parking. The library is next to the new Head to Health service and across from Ipswich City Council buildings.
Stanthorpe Day Retreat
As many of you know, a large cold front recently swept through South-East Queensland, bringing snow to the Southern Downs. Unfortunately, the worst of the weather hit Stanthorpe on 17 July, the same day as our planned Carers Day Retreat at a local vineyard. For everyone's safety, we decided to postpone the event to later in the year.
However, some local carers from Stanthorpe still wanted to meet for lunch, as they rarely have opportunities to connect in person. So, we organised a lovely lunch at Jamworks Cafe in Glen Aplin.
Some carer feedback from the retreat includes:
Thank you so much for today. It was the warm hug I needed.
It was wonderful to see people feel free enough to offload, unload and reload and form authentic connections with people that just got each other.
I loved that I gave myself permission to stop and I got to stop with a wonderfully generous bunch of carers who I know will become dearest of friends and best of allies.
It was so nice to meet people face to face after zooming or even for the first time ever. It was really reassuring to see that we're not alone in this situation we're in & that others share the same struggles.
Thank you again for getting us together & letting us vent & share our problems. I think it was what a lot of us needed. I know I really did & probably didn't even know how much I did need it.
We'll open registrations for the rescheduled Day Retreat soon and aim to hold it in late October. Stay tuned for more updates!
L to R: Aynur Goss, Arafmi, Drew Cummins, World Wellness Group, Alison Tyrell, World Wellness Group and Alex Tyson, Arafmi.
Culture Care - Free Support Program
Mental health carers from a culturally and/or linguistically diverse background, can access a free support program called Culture Care.
Arafmi has joined with multicultural health service World Wellness Group to provide Culture Care, with funding from Queensland Health. It provides personalised support, workshops and support groups tailored to people with culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Recently, Arafmi staff met with Drew Cummins, Program Manager, Mental Health and Wellbeing Services and Alison Tyrell, Wellbeing Support Coordinator from World Wellness Group to enhance the program.
The Culture Care monthly support group in South Brisbane (Upper Mount Gravatt) continues to meet every second Thursday of the month. The next meet-up is on 8 August.
For referrals and support, email Aynur or call Arafmi’s 24-hour Carer Support Line on 1300 554 660.
L to R: Councillor Nathan St Ledger, Shanon Cooper, Bayside Community Mental Health, Alex Tyson, Arafmi and Irene Clelland, Arafmi.
Logan Carer Support Initiatives
Arafmi CEO, Irene Clelland and General Manager - Carer Program and Advocacy, Alex Tyson recently met with Logan City Councillor Nathan St Ledger and Shanon Cooper from Bayside Community Mental Health. They discussed the needs of mental health carers in Logan and explored opportunities to raise awareness and provide support.
Arafmi has a regular Support Group in Logan held monthly at the Logan Central Library. We are working with Council now to plan a Mental Health First Aid course later in the year. Details will be provided when these are confirmed.
Thank you again to Councillor Nathan St Ledger and Shanon for understanding the needs of carers and being passionate about supporting mental health carers in the region.
Family Connections Program Update
Arafmi and Queensland Health are partnering again this year to run two more Family Connections programs with the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder (NEABPD). These 12-week programs offer families new skills and tools to better support a family member living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
The first program, completed on July 16, received very positive feedback. Participants appreciated the opportunity to connect, build confidence, and practice skills together while learning about BPD and chronic emotional dysregulation.
Following the program, carers can continue to receive support through the monthly online Arafmi Borderline Personality Disorder Support Group.
Create and Connect Monthly Group
Join us for Create and Connect, a monthly group where carers can connect and engage in creative activities to support their wellbeing. The group meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month from 9:30am to 11:30am at the Carer Respite Hub.
New Arafmi Workshop in September:
Carer's/Supporter's Journey
Join us for our new workshop, Carer's/Supporter's Journey to learn from the experiences of other family members, friends, partners and unpaid carers who have supported someone with mental health challenges.
Using Australian research and experiences, we will explore potential situations and emotions we could experience, and skills to use, as we walk alongside the person we support. For more information contact the Carer Support Team.
Thank you Queensland Shakespeare Ensemble for the tickets
A big thank you to Queensland Shakespeare Ensemble for generously donating tickets for carers to enjoy a night out at the theatre. From all reports, Tartuffe was a fantastic show. Check their website for upcoming performances.
Huge Thanks to the Broncos!
Thank you to the Broncos for donating tickets, giving mental health carers the chance to enjoy the 27 July Broncos vs Bulldogs game. They had an amazing time cheering for the team!
Looking Forward
Workshops
Online and face-to-face workshops are provided for carers each month and cover a range of topics to assist you. These include workshops to build skills, knowledge and confidence in areas like:
- How to communicate with the person you support
- How to create and maintain healthy personal boundaries
- Learning what the NDIS is and how to apply for access to this for the person you support
- Practical tools for carers – learn about resources and information to assist you at different points in your caring journey including tips for communicating with clinicians and templates to assist you.
If you have any questions about these or are not sure what workshops may be of benefit for you please contact the Carer Support Team or call 1300 554 660.
All workshops are advertised on our website here
Feedback from a recent workshop:
I felt so encouraged today. Not so alone with tangible ‘hope’ that I can learn and grow more. I think that really says something about the workshop and your facilitation skills... I look forward to attending as many workshops as I can over time as life permits.
Arafmi Carer Event Calendar
Explore Arafmi's free support programs. Our calendar includes tailored
support groups, workshops and events for mental health carers.
Opportunities for Carers
Kookaburra Kids Camp
Are you aged 8-18 and have a family member living with mental ill-health? Join Kookaburra Kids for a free camp.
Enjoy fun activities like a flying fox, giant swing, archery, and high and low ropes. Plus, learn about mental health and meet others with similar experiences.
Date: 13–15 September
Venue: Kokoda Park, Thornton.
Transport: Bus option–pick up and drop off from Aspley and Ipswich.
Register: All participants need to first register with Kookaburra Kids - and then book your spot for the camp.
Fair Play Vouchers
Closes: 30 May 2025
Funding amount: Voucher valued up to $200
Purpose: Parents, carers or guardians can apply for a voucher valued up to $200 for their child, which can be used towards sport and active recreation membership, registration or participation fees with registered activity provider. There is a limit of 1 voucher per child per calendar year.
Upcoming Young Carer Bursary Program
Staying at school or university and completing studies is a challenge for young carers. In September, applications open for The Young Carer Bursary.
The Young Carer Bursary program helps young carers stay in education by reducing their need to work while studying and caring. Each year, the program offers 1,592 bursaries of $3,768 to assist with education needs and resources.
COPMI Kidz Club Group
The COPMI Kidz Club Group is a free two-day supportive and educational group for primary school aged children (ages 7+) who have a family member living with mental ill-health. Children learn about symptoms of and treatment options for mental illness and ways of coping with stress and peer relationship difficulties. Morning tea and lunch will be provided.
Date: 17-18 September
Time: 10:00am-2:30pm
Where: Jacaranda Place Day Program, 78 Farnell Street Chermside.
There is a parent group component on 18 September, 1:00pm-2:30pm which assists in reducing feelings of stigma and isolation as well as learning ways of communicating positively with children.
National Carer Strategy Consultations
The Commonwealth Department of Social Services is inviting carers to contribute to the development of a National Carer Strategy. Consultations are being held in Brisbane and online during August.
Artist Roy Alfred Close
Healing and Awareness
Roy Alfred Close
Visit Roy Alfred Close's Upcoming Exhibition
Where the River Meets the Sea
Date: 9 -11 August
Cost: Free entry
Where: QATIF, 2/439 Lutwyche Road, Lutwyche
Pop into this pop-up exhibition to support community organisations serving your local area. All profits from artwork and merchandise sales go directly to the artist.
For one weekend only - immerse yourself in the vibrant artwork of Roy Alfred Close, a talented artist with Quandamooka, Butchulla, Jirrbal, and South Sea Islander heritage. Growing up in multiple suburbs across Brisbane, Where the River Meets the Sea reflects Roy’s profound sense of connectedness to the world around him. Through his masterful use of colour, composition and pattern, he expresses his unique voice, showcasing the strength of his cultural heritage and artistic practice. As Roy states, “Art gives me something to do, my art relaxes me. I give to people through my artwork.”
Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) is proud to host this exhibition in collaboration with Wesley Arts. QATSIF works to provide increased educational choices and life opportunities to Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. Wesley Arts is a creative initiative of Wesley Mission Queensland supporting artists living with disability.
For more details and the RSVP visit: Roy Close Exhibition - Facebook event
Always here for you
You can call Arafmi’s 24 hour Carer Support Line to share your feelings, receive support, find new resources and learn helpful coping skills to help you in your caring role. It’s comforting to know that when you need to talk – someone who understands will be there – at any hour.
Call us on 1300 554 660 (Brisbane) or 1800 351 881 ( Regional QLD)
Arafmi acknowledges Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Nations peoples of Australia and recognises their continuing connection to country, waters, kin, and communities. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and future and are committed to ensuring that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples voices are heard and respected across Queensland.
