For many family carers, looking after a loved one is both a responsibility and a quiet, ongoing commitment. With medical appointments, daily routines, household tasks, and the provision of emotional support, carers often give so much to others that their own needs are sometimes forgotten.
Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) understands how important carers are to families and the community. Since early 2026, CWCC has run the Carer Cuppa series, offering a friendly place for carers to learn, connect, relax, and find support. So far, there have been seven themed sessions on topics like health, wellbeing, aged care, financial planning, legal matters, and creative activities.
The first Carer Cuppa of the year took place on 22 January and started with a Tai Chi session. With gentle, mindful movements, participants were encouraged to slow down, breathe, and let go of the physical and emotional tension that often comes with caring for others.
In March, carers participated in a Chair Yoga session focused on stress management and self-care. Guided discussions covered ideas from the National Carer Strategy 2024–2034, helping carers spot signs of stress and burnout and learn practical ways to look after themselves. Gentle yoga exercises also helped everyone relax and be more mindful, giving carers a chance to reconnect with themselves.
The Carer Cuppa program also offers creative and therapeutic activities to support wellbeing. On 6 February, a Pot Painting Workshop was a big hit, as participants decorated plant pots and took home lovely plants donated by Bunnings. Then, on 1 April, a Mindful Garden Workshop let carers make small succulent gardens, have good conversations, and make new friends.
Emotional support matters, but carers also need practical information and resources. On 12 February and 20 April, CWCC invited guest speakers, including a Financial Information Service Officer from Services Australia and aged care experts. They spoke about Age Pension eligibility, income and asset tests, navigating the aged care system, and planning for future financial needs.
As caring becomes more complex, many families want advice on future healthcare and legal planning. On 7 May, CWCC invited Dr Ruth Wei from Murdoch University to talk about Advance Care Planning (ACP), Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), Enduring Power of Guardianship (EPG), and Advance Health Directives (AHD). The workshop gave carers useful information to help them plan ahead, make informed choices, and be better prepared for the future.
Through the Carer Cuppa program, participants have gained more than just practical information and resources. They have found understanding, companionship, encouragement, and friendship with others who share similar experiences and challenges.
CWCC is dedicated to supporting carers with a wide range of future activities and programs. By offering chances to connect, learn, and support each other, CWCC hopes every carer feels empowered to care for their loved ones and also receives the care, recognition, and support they deserve from the community.
