Love where you live? You can give back to your local community by joining the BCR Communities team as a valued volunteer. BCR was created by locals for locals and for more than 30 years we have been providing services within our communities with the support of our wonderful volunteers. GET INVOLVED HISTORY Volunteering with BCR Communities LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE You can give back to your local community by joining the BCR Communities team as a valued volunteer. BCR was created by locals for locals and for more than 30 years we have been providing services within our communities with the support of our wonderful volunteers. Volunteering for BCR Communities will give you the opportunity to: Make new friends and meet people Share your knowledge and talents Contribute to your community Learn new skills Be a part of a great team Find a sense of purpose Make a difference in the lives of others We also partner with Job Network Providers How to become a BCR volunteer Our team will take the time to get to know you and discover your interests, talents, skills and goals before finding the perfect role for you. Chat to us today and find out about the wide range of volunteering opportunities we have across our region. Fill in the contact us form below or phone 1300 222 748. First name Last name Email Phone Message Submit “The statistics are clear, men often get depressed once they leave the workforce and I didn’t think I would but retirement for some people is a bigger challenge than being in the workforce and I was one of those who was tremendously challenged. When I applied they asked me 'why do you want to be here?’ and I said, 'I just need some sense of fellowship, I need company.' I was nervous and it was difficult because I hadn’t played an instrument for 54 years but joining the Pirates Band gave me a new lease on life. I started practising and looking up YouTube videos, it gave me a reason for being and I get excited coming here. I found the fellowship I was looking for.” MILTON CONTACT

Love Where You Live? Make a Donation! Since we began in 1991, BCR Communities has flourished because of the generosity and kindness of our communities in the Bay & Basin, Shoalhaven and Illawarra. MAKE A DONATION HISTORY Love where you live? Make a donation Since we began in 1991, BCR Communities has flourished because of the generosity and kindness of our community.Since we began in 1991, BCR Communities has flourished because of the generosity and kindness of our community. Your donation will support: Hundreds of seniors in our communities to remain living happy and healthy lives in their own homes. Our Community Services team to continue to respond to the needs of our communities by delivering emergency food relief, flexible programs, workshops, activities and events. Our Home Maintenance Program to keep ensuring seniors stay safe at home. Our fun and engaging social groups to continue combatting loneliness and fostering friendships Carers to have much needed respite with our carer support options Children and teens to learn, be creative, have fun and connect to culture People with disability to be supported to achieve their goals Our Community Radio station BBCR 92.7FM to keep playing great music and connecting the Bay & Basin Donate Now Help us make a difference First Name Last Name Email Donate in the name of Donate Thank you for your donation!

Volunteer as a Driver Mentor with BCR Communities and help young learners gain the experience they need to get their P-plates. Just one hour a week can make a life-changing difference! We provide the car, training, and support—you provide your time and encouragement. Sign up today! VOLUNTEER TO BE A DRIVER MENTOR COMMUNITY SERVICES Are you ready to change a life? Are you an experienced driver with a little time to give? By volunteering just an hour or more a week, you can make a life-changing difference to a young person in your community. For many young people, getting a driver’s licence is the key to greater independence, employment opportunities, and access to education and social activities. However, not everyone has a vehicle or a licensed family member who can help them complete the 120 hours of supervised driving required to get their P-plates. That’s where you come in! What does a Driver Mentor do? As a volunteer Driver Mentor, you’ll provide supervised driving practice to young learners who have already received professional driving lessons. You’ll help them gain the on-road experience they need in different traffic conditions, improving their confidence and preparing them for their driving test. Where? We need volunteers in Nowra, the Bay & Basin, Sussex Inlet and Ulladulla. Who can volunteer? Anyone with a full licence, a good driving record, and a passion for helping others. Time commitment? Just one hour per week (or more if you can!). Do I need my own car? No! BCR Communities provides fully insured vehicles for all mentoring sessions. Why Volunteer? Make a real impact – Help a young person gain independence and access new opportunities. Give back to your community – Support local learners who may not have anyone else to help. No special qualifications needed – Just a safe driving record and a willingness to help. We provide the car, training, and support – You just provide your time and encouragement! Frequently Asked Questions 01 Who can be a mentor? Mentors need to be fully-licensed, experienced drivers who are over the age of 21. To become a volunteer mentor you will also need a clean driving record for the last five years, a Working with Children Check and a National Police Check. The BCR Communities team will help you to obtain these. 02 Will I need to pass a driving test? No, you won’t need to pass a driving test. Your valuable years of driving experience will make you well-equipped to guide a young person on the road. To help you feel confident and ensure you’re familiar with the latest road rules, we can provide access to online tutorials. 03 When will the mentoring sessions take place? Once we match you with a compatible mentee, you can work together to arrange mentoring times that suit both of your schedules. 04 Will I need to use my own car? No, as a driver mentor you will use a clean, well-maintained BCR Communities automatic car with added safety features and a full tank of petrol. 05 Will I need to pass a driving test? No, you won’t need to pass a driving test. Your valuable years of driving experience will make you well-equipped to guide a young person on the road. To help you feel confident and ensure you’re familiar with the latest road rules, we can provide access to online tutorials. 06 What happens if I don’t feel comfortable with my mentee? The safety and comfort of our mentors and mentees is our highest priority. If you ever feel uncomfortable, we encourage you to let us know immediately. We’ll work with you to address the situation, whether it involves resolving concerns or reassigning you to a different mentee to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved. 07 Will I work with the same mentee/s each week? We’ll do our best to match you with the same mentee, as it’s incredibly rewarding to support them throughout their journey from Ls to Ps. However, there may be occasional scheduling changes that require some flexibility. 08 How many hours a week will I need to volunteer? Just one hour per week, although more hours will always be welcome! If you become unwell or have travel plans, your volunteering can be paused to accommodate your circumstances. 09 When will the mentoring sessions take place? Once we match you with a compatible mentee, you can work together to arrange mentoring times that suit both of your schedules. Register your interest to be a volunteer driver mentor First name Last name Email Phone Message Submit “I’m really looking forward to starting as a Driver Mentor – I think it will be a great experience to go on this journey with a learner driver and see them walking away with their licence at the end of it.” Kristy Boardman - Driver Mentor

With work sheds, gardens, a radio station, and music and art studios, there is usually a lot happening at the BCR Activities Hub. It is a place where people can come together to participate in activities, join in events or work on meaningful projects with the aim of helping others in the community. The BCR Youth Collective Pods Precinct is a space created by young people, for young people — a place where you can be yourself, connect with others, and figure out what’s next at your own pace. Whether you're looking for support, want to build skills for work or study, or just need a safe, welcoming spot to hang out and meet people who get you, this is your space. Designed with input from young people living in the Bay and Basin, the Youth Collective is all about creating opportunities, building confidence, and backing you as you take steps toward the future you want. Programs inspired by you and your crew Want to find out more? Curious & Creative is a unique, hands-on program that helps young people re-engage with learning in a way that actually makes sense for them. If the traditional school setting hasn’t worked for you, this program offers a new approach – one that’s all about creativity, curiosity and connection. Through fun, practical projects and a supportive environment, you’ll build confidence, discover your strengths, and explore new ways to learn, grow and get excited about the future again. school re-engagement The BCR Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program connects young people with volunteer mentors who’ll help you get the driving experience you need in a safe and supportive way. If getting your log book driving hours feels impossible because you don’t have access to a car or someone to teach you, you may be eligible for the program. We’ll provide the car, the guidance, and the encouragement to help you go from Ls to Ps, and gain independence and confidence along the way. Ls to Ps driver mentoring program Keen to land a job but not sure where to start? BCR Retail and Hospitality Training is a hands-on, supportive way to build the skills and confidence you need to step into work. You’ll learn real-world skills like customer service, barista basics and point-of-sale systems - all in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. Whether you’re looking for your first job or a fresh start, we’re here to help you get job-ready and feeling confident. BCR retail and hospitality training These programs help young people take the next step by facilitating free, practical courses through trusted registered training providers like TAFE and Kiama Community College. If you are not currently at school and want to gain skills that lead to employment, we’ll support you to find the right course - from hospitality to business, community services and more. Subsidised through the NSW Government’s Smart and Skilled Program, it’s a flexible and supportive way to build your future. BCR further education and training BCR Enterprises is a one-of-a-kind social enterprise that gives young people the chance to gain real work experience and training while making a difference in their own community. Whether you're stepping into the workforce for the first time or looking for meaningful, purpose-driven work, BCR Enterprises offers supportive, on-the-job training in a range of areas including lawn and garden services and domestic assistance. It’s all about building skills, confidence and connection, while being part of something that matters. BCR enterprises First impressions count and the BCR Smart Styling Sessions are here to help you feel confident, polished and ready to shine in your next job interview. We’ll help you put together an outfit that’s professional and feels like you, plus share tips on how to present yourself, answer common interview questions and walk in with confidence. Whether it’s your first interview or your fifth, these sessions are all about helping you show up as your best self. BCR smart styling sessions Spaces to inspire you and your crew BCR youth collective pods precinct Collective Café Gallery and Meeting Space Makers Space Yarn Circle Wellness Centre Zen Garden BCR Sanctuary Point youth and community centre Community Space 2nd Chance Op Shop Smart Start Styling BCR activities hub Creative Space and Kiln Woodwork Shed Community Radio Station Community Produce Garden "My name is Shania, and I first became involved with BCR in 2022 through the Curious & Creative High School Re-engagement program. Back then, I was in Year 7, struggling with anxiety after being bullied and disconnected from school and my community. BCR was welcoming, kind, and non-judgmental. Through the program, I gained my confidence back and returned to school. I was part of the group that helped design the Youth Pods, and it was amazing to be listened to and know we were creating something special for young people in the Bay & Basin. Having a place that's just for us makes a huge difference, especially if you're not connected to school. Even when things got tough again last year, BCR was there to support me. I’ve now graduated from Curious & Creative and I’m heading back into Year 10 full-time with plans to finish my HSC and build a career in child studies. Shania Want to find out more? First name Last name Email Phone Type your message here Submit

Join BCR Communities’ NDIS Summer Holiday Program based in the BCR Tongarra Centre in Albion Park, with exciting day trips, social activities and adventures designed for young people across the Illawarra. NDIS SUMMER HOLIDAYS HISTORY Are you ready to make memories this summer? Get ready for a summer packed with fun, friends and new adventures! Our BCR Communities NDIS Summer Holiday Program based in Albion Park, is all about giving young people the chance to get out and explore, try new things, build confidence and connect with others in a supportive, relaxed environment. From outdoor adventures and animal encounters to gaming, mini golf, swimming and sweet-treat road trips, every outing has been designed to be inclusive, exciting and full of good vibes. Pick your favourites, book your spot and get ready for an unforgettable summer! NDIS Activities Program for January 2026 Albion Park Frequently asked questions NDIS Summer Holidays Program How do I book an activity? To secure your spot on any of our social activities, simply give our friendly BCR Communities team a call on 1300 222 748 or email info@BCRcommunities.com and we can discuss the next steps with you. Numbers are limited for each outing, so we recommend booking early to avoid missing out. If an activity fills up, we can pop you on our waiting list and contact you if a place becomes available. Where do the activities leave from? All activities leave from and return to, our BCR Tongarra Centre at 108a Tongarra Street, Albion Park. The entry is via the Albion Park Showground carpark. What is I need help getting to and from the BCR Tongarra Centre? Please let us know if you need support with transport as pick-up and drop-off from home may be able to be arranged. What is the cost for the activities? The cost for each activity has been listed in the calendar. You are welcome to bring extra money if you would like to buy snacks, drinks, lunch or souvenirs. How long do the activities go for? Most activities run from 9am to 3pm, although this can change slightly depending on how far we’re travelling, traffic, or the type of activity planned. What should I bring? To make sure you’re comfortable on the day, please remember to bring the essentials: a hat, water bottle and sunscreen to keep sun-safe, or a jumper or umbrella depending on the weather. Don't forget your lunch and snacks, or money to buy your lunch when we are out. Who can take part in the Summer Holiday Program? Our Summer Holiday Program is designed for young people with an NDIS plan who benefit from low to medium levels of support. This helps us create a safe, positive and well-supported environment where everyone can join in, feel comfortable and enjoy the activities to the fullest. SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about our NDIS Summer Holidays Program

With work sheds, gardens, a radio station, and music and art studios, there is usually a lot happening at the BCR Activities Hub. It is a place where people can come together to participate in activities, join in events or work on meaningful projects with the aim of helping others in the community. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES BCR Activities Hub A SUPPORTIVE, FRIENDLY AND INCLUSIVE SPACE IN BEAUTIFUL SANCTUARY POINT With workshops, enrichment gardens, a community radio station, live performance space and music and art studios, there is usually a lot happening at the BCR Activities Hub. It is a place where, supported by our amazing team of volunteers, people from all parts of the community can come together to participate in activities, join in events or work on meaningful projects with the aim of helping others. 1/1 At the BCR Activities Hub you might... Learn a new skill Make new friends and social connections Grow fresh produce in the community enrichment gardens Broadcast your own radio program Be involved in intergenerational workshops Build toys and play equipment for local kids Discover a new passion like pottery or playing in a band Help with practical projects that support seniors to stay living in their homes Feel connected to your community Improve your health and well-being “I am a retired builder and joiner, so when I come to the Activities Hub I can keep using my skills and continue to do what I love doing. We do a lot of projects that help our community and I’ve met a lot of good blokes. I also met a very lovely lady here and we get on really well – all we seem to do is laugh!” WAYNE

Contact the team at BCR Communities today to find out more about our aged care, NDIS and community services. Phone 1300 222 748 or email info@bcrcommunities.com CONTACT US Contact us today 1300 222 748 | info@BCRcommunities.com Or visit us at 18 Sanctuary Point Road, Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BCR COMMUNITIES HEAD OFFICE 16 Browns Road South Nowra, NSW, 2541 BCR AGED CARE OFFICE NOWRA 34 Paradise Beach Road Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BCR COMMUNITIES YOUTH & COMMUNITY CENTRE 108A Tongarra Road Albion Park, NSW, 2527 (Entry via the Albion Park Showground Carpark) BCR COMMUNITIES ALBION PARK 16 Sanctuary Point Road, Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BCR AGED CARE OFFICE SANCTUARY POINT 130 Macleans Point Road Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BCR COMMUNITIES WELLNESS CENTRE 18 Sanctuary Point Road, Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BBCR 92.7FM RADIO STATION 16 Sanctuary Point Road, Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BCR DAY RESPITE COTTAGE 21 Meriton Street St Georges Basin, NSW, 2540 BCR COMMUNITIES AGEING WELL 18 Sanctuary Point Road, Sanctuary Point, NSW, 2540 BCR COMMUNITIES ACTIVITES HUB We welcome your feedback PLEASE LET US KNOW HOW WE SERVICE OUR COMMUNITY We value all feedback, compliments and complaints. The feedback you provide will be addressed in a timely, respectful and transparent manner and be used to guide improvements across our organisation. Please let us know what we do well and where we can improve by completing the information below. You can also provide feedback by phoning 1300 222 748 or emailing info@BCRcommunities.com What kind of feedback will you be providing? Which service does your feedback relate to? What is your relationship with BCR Communities? Would you like to leave your contact details? If yes, please add your name here Phone Email Please add your feedback here What outcomes would you like as a result of providing your feedback? Submit In the unlikely event that a matter cannot be resolved with BCR Communities, you can seek assistance from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission GPO Box 9819 (in your capital city) Ph: 1800 951 822 www.agedcarequality.gov.au

A BCR Communities Home Care Package (HCP) will give you the support you need to keep living independently in your own home and socially connected to your local community. We work with you and your support network to create a personalised program based on your lifestyle, needs, values and goals. AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Care Packages STAY HEALTHY AND HAPPY AT HOME A BCR Communities Home Care Package (HCP) will give you the support you need to keep living independently in your own home and socially connected to your local community. Home Care Packages are designed for those with more complex or intensive care needs that go beyond what the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) can provide. Once you have been assigned your government-subsidised Home Care Package through My Aged Care, your experienced BCR Communities care team will work with you and your support network to create a personalised program based on your values, lifestyle, needs and goals. A BCR Home Care Package can support you with: Individualised supports: based around your interests and preferred activities Personal services: aimed to assist you with any personal care needs you may have Shopping: making sure you have all you need to generate healthy meals at home Meal preparation: assisting you to prepare or have delivered fresh and nutritious meals Transport: helping you get to medical or other essential appointments Declutter and packing: helping keep your house safe, tidy and organised In-home respite: keeping you company when your carer has other commitments Minor home modifications and equipment: so you can stay independent in your home Allied Health support: to assist with maintaining independence in your home Why Choose BCR Communities for In-Home Support? COMMUNITY Personalised Care Our team takes the time to understand your goals, lifestyle and values so that we can create a personalised plan that is just for you. COMMUNITY Consistent quality care You will be supported by a team of people from your local community who are experienced, caring and committed to providing the best quality support. COMMUNITY We are truly local BCR Communities was created for locals by locals and nobody understands the communities of the Shoalhaven and Illawarra better than we do. COMMUNITY We are flexible and responsive We understand that your needs and goals may change over time so we will regularly review your plan to ensure you are always living the best life possible. COMMUNITY We put people first As a community-led, not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. COMMUNITY We are inclusive We welcome people from across our communities and celebrate the diversity they bring to our organisation. Contact BCR today to find out more about how we can support you at home First name Last name Email Phone Type your message Submit Values Based Care Plans The BCR Communities difference is that we really get to know you before creating a plan of support. We use ExSitu , an innovative and award-winning app designed to provide the highest level of values-based care. We are moving from filling in complicated or confusing forms so you can sit in the comfort or your own home with a BCR care staff member and answer ExSitu’s simple card-based questions. The app will help you to identify what is important to you, what gives you joy, and how we might support you to live your best possible life. By establishing your core values and lifestyle desires, ExSitu can generate a values-based care plan that is truly personalised for you. Find out more Steps to getting a Home Care Package STEP 1 The first step in accessing a government-subsidised Home Care Package is to contact My Aged Care to check your eligibility. You can call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au My Aged Care STEP 2 If you are eligible, a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit your home to provide a free home support assessment. During this meeting they will identify what your home care needs are and confirm your eligibility to receive government-subsidised support. STEP 3 My Aged Care will write to you to let you know the outcome of your assessment and the level of care you are eligible for and approved to receive. There is a waiting list for HCP funding to be assigned. My Aged Care will notify you in writing once you have been assigned a package. Am I eligible for a Home Care Package? Eligibility for a government-subsidised Home Care Package is based on your age and your support needs. A Home Care Package could be what you need if you are: need support with everyday activities need support to continue to living independently in your own home and your community 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) OR 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and on a low income, homeless or at risk of being homeless. Support at Home Price List “I can’t fault them in any way and I appreciate everything they do for me because they are lovely girls and I would be lost without them.” ELAINE

The BCR Communities Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program is designed to support disadvantaged Learner Drivers to get the required supervised driving hours they need to get their Provisional Licence. Experienced volunteer Driver Mentors deliver the support in safe and maintained vehicles. Ls TO Ps DRIVER MENTORING PROGRAM COMMUNITY SERVICES Turn your Ls into Ps NOWRA BAY & BASIN ULLADULLA Are you a learner driver who needs help to get the required supervised driving experience? Maybe you don’t have access to a car or maybe you don’t have a licensed family member or friend to supervise you. Become a safe and confident driver and complete your learner driver logbook requirements with the free Ls to Ps Shoalhaven Driver Mentoring Program. Our friendly, patient and experienced volunteers will supervise your required driving hours in a safe and maintained automatic car. Eligibility The Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program can accept referrals from eligible learner drivers including participants who are: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples Refugees or part of a resettlement community People experiencing social and economic hardship People with disability or who are neurodivergent People impacted by limited access to transport options Register your interest for the Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program First name Last name Phone Email Region Type your message Submit Volunteer to be a Driver Mentor ARE YOU AN EXPERIENCED DRIVER WHO CAN GIVE AN HOUR OR MORE A WEEK? Having a driver’s licence means better access to employment, education, training and social activities but not everyone in our community has a vehicle or a licensed family member who can mentor them for the required 120 hours of driving time. AS A DRIVER MENTOR YOU WILL HAVE A REAL LIFE CHANGING IMPACT ON THE PEOPLE YOU MENTOR We need volunteers in Nowra, the Bay & Basin and Ulladulla who are fully licensed, with a good driving history, and available for a minimum of one hour per week to help learners gain on-road experience in different conditions. BCRCommunities vehicles are supplied for the mentoring sessions. “I’m really looking forward to starting as a Driver Mentor – I think it will be a great experience to go on this journey with a learner driver and see them walking away with their licence at the end of it.” Kristy Boardman - Driver Mentor Register your interest to volunteer to be a Driver Mentor First name Last name Email Phone Type your message Submit

Whether your goal is getting a job, living independently, learning new skills, socialising and making friends or just having fun, BCR Communities is your local NDIS provider. We take the time to really understand your interests, dreams and goals before tailoring a support plan that is just for you. NDIS SUPPORTS HISTORY Do you have an NDIS plan? BCR COMMUNITIES IS YOUR LOCAL NDIS PROVIDER Whether your goal is working towards getting a job, living independently, learning new skills, socialising and making friends or just having fun, BCR Communities can support you to achieve it. We take the time to really understand your interests, dreams and goals before tailoring a support plan that is just for you. Here are just some examples of how we can support you to achieve your goals JOIN THE WORKFORCE Goal: Join the workforce We can give you the support you need to learn specific employment skills like time-management, working safely (WHS), travel training and communication skills. IMPROVE HEALTH & WELLBEING Goal: Improve my health and wellbeing We can help you discover activities which will improve your fitness and have you feeling fantastic. It might be bushwalking, dancing, bowling or swimming.. GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITY Goal: Give back to my community At the BCR Activities Hub you can work with our volunteers and staff on many projects that give back to our community. MAKE NEW FRIENDS Goal: Make new friends You will meet lots of new people at the BCR Activities Hub and we can also support you to join fun activities, social groups and events in the community. INCREASE INDEPENDENCE Goal: Increase my independence BCR can support you to build the skills you need for daily living. Learn how to cook, mow the lawn, stick to a budget or use public transport. LEARN A NEW SKILL Goal: Learn a new skill From getting your L plates to playing music or hosting your own radio show, if there is a skill you want to learn, we can support you to master it. "I am learning to play the guitar, plant in the garden, make things with wood, catch a fish and cook my own lunch on the BBQ. Next I want to learn the drums!" JESSE Contact BCR today to find out more about our Youth Employment Assistance SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH.

BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program services the Bay and Basin region and offers a helping hand with a range of small home maintenance tasks and garden clean ups. The focus is on removing risks to health and safety and maintaining a home environment which supports health and independence. AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Maintenance Program BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program services the Bay and Basin region, offering a friendly helping hand with a range of small home maintenance tasks and garden clean ups. The focus of the service is on removing risks to health and safety and maintaining a home environment which supports your independence and wellness goals. You might need to change a lightbulb but feel unsteady on a ladder, maybe you need to repair an old railing or have a path that is slippery with mould and mildew? Our team will assess what needs to be done and then help you with all those minor maintenance jobs so that you can continue to live safely and independently in your own home. The BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program is funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) so you will need to contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to access this service. BCR Communties CHSP Contact BCR today to find out more about the home maintenance program First name Last name Email Phone Message Submit “My garden is very important to me, it is what I love most about my home. Before BCR came it was such a mess that it was starting to feel really depressing looking at it. I feel so much better mentally now.” DOREEN

While caring for a loved one is rewarding, it can also sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. It is important to look after your own wellbeing and also be informed about what help is available to you as a carer. BCR Communities holds monthly carer support meetings, and day and overnight respite. AGEING WELL HISTORY Carer Support At BCR Communities we understand that while caring for someone is rewarding, it can also sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. It is important to look after your own health and wellbeing and also be informed about what help is available to you as a carer. BCR centre based respite BCR Communities offers a small day-centre respite group tailored specifically for people living with dementia. The group meets every Tuesday from 9.30am to 2.30pm at the BCR Communities Wellness Centre located at 130 Macleans Point Road, Sanctuary Point. Our experienced staff provide care that is responsive and empathetic and aim to promote well-being with meaningful and fun activities. Morning tea and lunch is provided and clients feel supported in a comfortable and safe environment. BCR Carer Support Group BCR Communities Carer Support Group meets once a month on a Thursday afternoon for a cuppa and a chat. It is a relaxed and friendly environment where everybody has the opportunity to share their experiences, discuss challenges and support others. There is no cost and all carers are welcome. The meetings are currently held: Every third Thursday of the month - 1.30pm to 3.00pm at the BCR Wellness Centre, 130 Macleans Point Rd, Sanctuary Point Please RSVP if you would like to attend the meeting by phoning 1300 222 748 or emailing info@BCRcommunities.com Other carer support Serviced by the Australian Government, the Carer Gateway provides emotional, practical and financial support for carers. Find out about counselling, tips and advice, peer support groups, financial help, coaching, emergency respite and other government support programs. 1800 422 737 Find out more Dementia Support Australia represents the 487,500 Australians living with dementia and their almost 1.6 million Australians carers. The website has resources, information, links to counselling, the latest research and events. There is also a free national dementia helpline which you can call any time. 1800 699 799 Find out more "I love my husband and want to care for him but as his dementia progresses, I’m spending more and more time at home alone with him. While my friends and family are sympathetic they really don’t understand what I’m going through like the other carers in the support group. It is so good to know that others are going through the same thing and get their advice and support. We also have a chat and a laugh together which helps." CARER SUPPORT GROUP MEMBER