Support for carers
A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who lives with:
- disability
- mental illness
- chronic condition
- terminal illness
- an alcohol or other drug issue
- is frail aged.
Most carers don’t see themselves as carers. When someone cares for a family member or friend living with additional care needs, they may need support too.
SMHS recognises the knowledge, experience and significant contribution carers make to the lives of the people they care for.
SMHS is committed to partnering with carers to ensure their views and needs are considered, along with those of the person receiving the care, when decisions are made that impact on them and their role.
All SMHS hospitals participate in the ‘Prepare to Care’ hospital program. As part of the program, Carers WA (external link) educates and supports staff to identify and support carers.
The program is aligned to the Western Australian Carers Charter and assists SMHS to comply with the Carers Recognition Act 2004 (external link)
To enhance the experience for both patients and carers across SMHS, carers are represented on numerous hospital committees to provide feedback on services provided.
Support for carers
Carers WA (external site) represents the needs and interest of carers within WA.
Carer Gateway (external link) provides support and services to carers, including respite care, counselling, peer support or learning new skills.
Share your feedback
If you are concerned about care we have delivered to a family member or person you support, you have a right to let us know about it.
Read how to provide feedback about services provided by SMHS.