News

Nothing surer than change
Wed, Jul 16 2008

If the Loddon Mallee’s Ageing Carers Initiative had a “poster” family, it would probably be the Stubbings.

Bill and Theresa, of Campbells Creek, together with their daughter Jo, have been involved in the project since it began two years ago.

The Initiative provides support and planning to older people who are caring for someone with a disability. It is a joint project of agencies throughout the region and is auspiced by Bendigo Health and the EW Tipping Foundation.

Bill says the project is marvelous. “It really opened our eyes,” he said. “We thought we were the only people who could look after Jo. We never thought about what would happen when we died; I guess we just thought the family would look after her.”

Now the family has an entirely different outlook. Bill, Theresa, Jo and her siblings Tracy, Wayne and Scott have all been involved in the planning of Jo’s future with facilitator David Silvagni. Options for Jo include shared supported accommodation in Castlemaine, or staying in a unit attached to Tracy’s house.

“I hope to move out of home one day, because I want to live my life like everyone else,” said Jo.

To help her along, the Initiative funds a staff member from Jo’s day service, Windarring, to visit once a fortnight and spend time with Jo doing what she wants to do – perhaps going on trips, developing her travel skills, or enjoying a day of craft or cooking at home.

The visit also gives Bill and Theresa some respite from their carers’ role, and gives Jo the skills to become increasingly independent.

“When you’re caring for a child with a disability, you don’t like to think about the future but it’s terribly, terribly important that you do,” said Bill. “We all found it difficult to talk about at times, but the Initiative has steered us into a positive and definite direction.

“What do they say – there’s nothing more definite than change?”


The Ageing Carers Initiative is celebrating its second birthday with a special celebration on Wednesday 30 July in Bendigo.

For more information on the day or the Initiative, contact 5470 5979.