Support groups

Benefits of joining a group

Support groups are made up of people with common needs and experiences. Their members help each other in many ways:

• Emotional support. You may find it a relief to talk things over with people who understand the pressures of caring but are not involved with you, the person you care for or your family.
• Practical information, tips and resources. Most support groups share information about local services and supports, medical treatments and research, or tips to help make caring easier. 
• New friends. Many carers find that the demands of caring make it difficult to keep in touch with friends and family. Regularly getting out to a support group can expand your social circle and help you feel less alone.

How support groups work

Most groups meet regularly (perhaps for a couple of hours once a month) at the same time and place. There is usually no charge, although some groups ask for a small contribution for refreshments.

A carer support worker is responsible for contacting members, dealing with administration and running the sessions. Facilitators might also help keep members up-to-date with new developments or arrange guest speakers on topics of interest to the group.

Support groups often discuss very personal situations. It is important that every member feels the group is a safe place to talk about difficult things and is confident that what they talk about will stay within the group. The facilitator is also responsible for making sure that the members of a group discuss and agree group policies on confidentiality and mutual respect.

Finding groups in your area

Choosing the right group

Every care situation is different and support groups vary to meet the needs of their members.
Ask yourself if a particular group makes you feel comfortable and if it is meeting your needs. If one group doesn't feel right, try a different one.