Funding for Illawarra Retirement Trust

FIVE local Wollongong care services will share in extended funding of $845,000 providing a guarantee of more respite services for carers.

Among the groups receiving funding is the Illawarra Retirement Trust, which operates aged care facilities across the Illawarra and southern Sydney, including the largest in northern Illawarra at Woonona. The IRT was funded to the amount of $236,892.

Federal MP for Cunningham Sharon Bird said local service providers can plan respite needs in advance because the funding provides certainty for the next two years.

“Carers do a tremendous job and it can be physically and emotionally demanding,” Ms Bird said.

“Carers need the opportunity to take time out from their caring responsibilities to work, relax, catch up with friends, and do other things we sometimes take for granted.

“Carers also need to be reassured that when they take time out for themselves that their loved one is being looked after.

“I am pleased that the Commonwealth Government is extending funding for two years to ensure local service providers in my electorate are able to ensure respite services continue”, Ms Bird said.

The extension of Commonwealth Government funding has been provided under the National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP).