CARERS NT FAMILY FUN DAY

Carers Week kicks off on the 15^th of October and runs through till the 21^st – it aims to raise awareness of carers, the roles they play and the support and services available to help them.

In Australia we recognise the important contribution made by the 2.65 million unpaid carers to help both their own families and other community members. Here in the Northern Territory that adds up to an estimated 30,000 people.

Carers play a significant role in our health system and make up nearly 11% of our population. Nearly everyone knows someone who is a carer or relies on one and it’s almost inevitable that at some stage in your life, you too will be in those shoes.

One in eight Australians is a carer and they often experience social isolation and find it harder to maintain employment, enter the workforce or participate in education. And this is unfortunate because as a nation we rely heavily on their help – their contribution is often 24/7 and challenging to say the least.

As a non-profit, leading community organisation and registered charity, Carers NT is dedicated to improving the lives of our carers here in the Territory, they are a part of the network of Carers Associations representing the interests of those here on the ground. Creating active partnerships with carers, those needing care, health professionals, service providers, government and the wider community to make this often unexpected journey as easy as possible with an improved quality of life.

Starting from humble beginnings Carers NT currently has offices in Darwin, Howard Springs, Katherine, Alice Springs, Nhulunbuy and Ramingining.

What better way to celebrate Carers week and show our gratitude for our unsung heroes in the NT than by having a Family Fun Day at Leanyer Recreation Park on Sunday 15^th of October.

Territory 104ONE will be live on the day with Hoops firing up the BBQ, Fairy Jill will be painting faces and entertaining and of course what’s a family day without a jumping castle!

Family Fun Days are held on the 15^th around the Northern Territory so here are the details for all the events if you know someone down the track or are going to be travelling that weekend.

Darwin:
Leanyer Recreation Park 11am – 1pm

Alice Springs:
Alice Springs Aquatic and Leisure Centre 11am 0- 1pm

Katherine
Katherine Aquatic Centre 11am – 1pm

Nhulunbuy:
Nhulunbuy Aquatic Centre 3-5pm

If you would like to watch a brief history of the last 30 years of the work Carer NT does across the Northern Territory – here’s a great overview thanks to First Nations TV.