‘A sense of hope’: A palliative care carers support group and bereavement support group

Carers as well as being providers of care, have specific care requirements themselves. Spiritus, a not for profit community service organisation, identified a local need to support the growing numbers of carers of people with a life limiting illness. The Palliative Care Carers Support Group project was funded by a Local Palliative Care Grant and commenced in 2006. It uses a number of strategies to support primary carers in their role. It provides practical advice and support so they are fully informed and able to participate as a valued and informed member in the care planning process. The groups also provide a forum for carers to meet with others experiencing similar life challenges and an opportunity for them to identify and meet their own needs and learn the importance of caring for themself. An additional issue was highlighted through consultation with the carers who attended the groups. This resulted in a bereavement group which provides an avenue for the carer to receive bereavement support prior to and after the death of their loved one.

The presentation provides an overview of a person and family centred support group model, the stages of its development and implementation and the challenges and lessons learnt during these stages. Conference participants will gain valuable information on the strengths and limitations of a collaborative support group model and the important outcomes for the carers involved.