A COVID Update

Dear NSW and VIC families, 

With extended lockdowns and COVID restrictions, we know this is a challenging time for many families. We wanted to let you know that our NSW and VIC teams are still working hard to support Young Carers during this time, and we are here if you require additional support. 

SUPPORT FOR CARERS

Please reach out to your Family Support Worker for additional information on supports we can provide. We can help refer you to Little Dreamers’ programs or other organisations to support you during this time. If you aren’t sure who your Support Worker is, please call Little Dreamers on 1800 717 515. 

Young Carers can increase their social connection during the lockdown by heading to our Dreamers Hub. Our online forum is always open and moderated by Little Dreamers staff. In addition, our weekly online Hour of Power sessions run on Wednesday afternoons for 6-9 year olds, Thursday afternoons for 10-14 year olds, and Tuesday afternoons for ages 15 and over. Sign up here to have the zoom link sent to you. 

Your local Carer Gateway service provider may also be able to assist with things like accessing online tutoring or other homeschooling supports. You can also access phone counselling through the Carer Gateway, along with other supports. You can speak to your Family Support Worker if you want more information on the Carer Gateway. 

Mental Health Support

Listed below are helpful phone numbers and websites where you can access free mental health support. If you or someone in your family is under immediate concern please contact emergency services on 000.

24hr Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/Pages/mental-health-line.aspx

Lifeline: 13 11 14
https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Beyond Blue

Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
Kids Helpline

VACCINE INFORMATION 

If you are over the age of 16 and caring for a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant of any age, you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Anyone over the age of 18 can also now access the AstraZeneca Vaccine, and there are many walk in clinics available. 

For more information on accessing vaccines, please visit the site below. 

https://www.carergateway.gov.au/covid-19

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Please see the NSW and VIC Government websites for the most up-to-date information on the financial supports which are available:

• https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/financial-support
• https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/financial-and-other-support-coronavirus-covid-19

If you need any support or further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email or by calling us on 1800 717 515. 

Keep dreaming big, 

Little Dreamers NSW and VIC teams