Nationwide Support: PWSA Victoria’s Groundbreaking Sibling Support Program Launches!
Did you know: A Young Carer is a young person under 25 who provides, or intends to provide care, assistance or support to a family member affected by disability, chronic or mental illness, substance use, or is frail age.
Young Carers will provide care for a loved one in varying capacities. This could range from emotional support and assistance with household activities, lifting, dressing and feeding.
Supporting the siblings within our PWS community who have a brother or sister living with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a vital and often overlooked aspect of our mission.
These siblings face unique challenges and emotions that can easily be overshadowed by the intense focus on caring for individuals with PWS and the understandable overwhelming surge of emotions experienced by parents.
However, recognising and addressing the needs of these siblings is paramount. By offering them support, understanding, and tailored resources, we not only validate their experiences but also provide them with the tools to navigate the complexities of their family dynamics. It is our belief that by focusing on the holistic well-being of every member of our community, including siblings, we can foster a more inclusive, empathetic, and resilient environment for all.
Australian siblings of PWS individuals, your time is now. It’s your turn to step into the spotlight! PWSA Victoria, in collaboration with Carer’s Gateway Young Carers and Little Dreamers, is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking 8-week Online Sibling Peer Support Program, tailored for YOU. Kicking off in 2024, join us to navigate the shared journey, celebrate your role, and connect with those who truly understand. Your support network awaits – let’s thrive together!
So, after a considerable wait, our Sibling Support Programs are on the horizon, with the launch scheduled for Term 1 of 2024. We have joined forces with Carer’s Gateway Young Carers and Little Dreamers to establish a comprehensive support network for the siblings within our community.
An 8-week Online Sibling Peer Support Program aimed at Siblings aged up to 25 years of age. The Program is led by two seasoned staff members from Carer’s Gateway and Little Dreamers, will kick off in February.
This program will be accessible to siblings across Australia.
Recognising the unique challenges faced by siblings of individuals with PWS, Carer’s Gateway and Little Dreamers have agreed to host a dedicated PWS-specific group.
Additionally, PWSA Vic encourages siblings to explore membership in general groups and engage in the broader array of experiences offered by Little Dreamers.
If this initiative proves successful, we plan to introduce additional programs following the initial pilot, further expanding our support offerings to siblings.
