Whilst there are professional services to help carers, many also rely on an informal network of family, friends and neighbours. This may mean having someone to talk to, sharing a cup of tea, or someone taking over the care so you can have some rest.
A team of researchers from the University of Western Sydney have partnered with the Cancer Council, Calvary Health Care, and Australian Catholic University to increase our knowledge about this important area. They would like to better understand informal networks of people who helped you care for your loved one.
Currently, 7 in 10 people wish to die at home, but less than 2 in 10 do so. It is hoped that understanding what is already happening can influence public policy so that carers are well supported and more people may be able to choose to die at home.
The researchers would like to hear the stories of people who have cared for a loved one whilst they were dying at home. Carers of any ethnic backgrounds are able to participate and Indigenous carers are welcome to share their stories. The researchers would like to contrast urban and rural experiences, so are interested in hearing stories from inner-city areas. The research has been approved by ethics committees.
