Hand in Hand is a three-year initiative (2019-2021) that provides culturally appropriate support to migrant and refugee carers of those who are living with a life-limiting illness.
Funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the project provides carers and the people they care with tailored support through support companions, and assists carers to access relevant services and resources during the course of caring. After their caring journey, Hand in Hand provides pathways for carers to re-enter the workforce and connect with people who have similar experiences.
What is the issue?
How will the project make a difference?
- Listen to and identify the carers' needs
- Help carers understand and navigate the health system and support services
- Are available and contactable during the caring journey
- Provide carers with tailored and culturally appropriate information and resources
- Link or introduce carers to others who have been/are in a similar situation
- Provide any other support the carer may need
Who is this free service for?
Bilingual and bicultural workers are available for anyone who is:
- Looking after their family or friends with a life-limiting illness, such as cancer or dementia
- From an immigrant or refugee background and living in Melbourne
- Feeling overwhelmed/exhausted and having difficulties navigating the health and support system
- Confused about what to prepare when their family member or friend is dying
- Feeling isolated and simply wanting to talk to someone in their own language
How do I get support?
If you are an individual, you can contact Project Officer Yue Gao at yue@mcwh.com.au or 03 9418 0922.
If you work at an organisation and are referring someone, please fill in the Client Referral Form and send it to yue@mcwh.com.au.
Project information in Arabic, Dari, Greek, Italian, Simplified Chinese and Vietnamese
We have information about the Hand in Hand project in six languages: Arabic, Dari, Greek, Italian, Simplified Chinese and Vietnamese.