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Q: How did the Caregiver Support Program begin?
A: The Way Home report (1996), a comprehensive review of continuing care services undertaken in Vancouver, identified the lack of support and education for family and friend caregivers. The report stated “continuing care needs to recognize that it is imperative to keep this important resource healthy in mind, body, and spirit ″(The Way Home report, 1996, p.55). It was suggested that the ideal method of increasing support to this group is through the provision of education, support groups and respite services. In fall of 1999, Northeast Vancouver was selected to host the pilot project and a steering committee was formed to provide guidance and direction. The Caregiver Support Project started as a regular program in the spring of 2001 and since that time has expanded to offer education, support, information and referral services throughout the Vancouver region.
Q: Who can attend the program?
A: The Caregiver Support Program and services are open to individuals providing unpaid care to loved ones living in the Vancouver area.
Q: Is there a fee charged to attend the program?
A: Caregiver Support Programs are offered free of charge.
Q: Where are programs offered?
A: The Education Series is offered several times a year in a variety of locations in Vancouver - community health centres, community recreation centres, neighbourhood houses and local community colleges.
Q: What programs and services are offered?
A: The Caregiver Support Program offers the following programs and services:
Q: Do I need a referral from my doctor or health professional to join the program?
A: Referral to the program can be made by self-referral, service providers and health professionals.
Q: Who can attend the workshops?
A: The Caregiver Support Programs are open to all unpaid family/friend caregivers caring for a loved one living in the Vancouver area.
Q: Do you have to be actively caring for someone to join the program?
A: You do not have to be actively caring for someone to join the program. Individuals who are planning to provide care in the future are highly encouraged to attend the program.
Q: I need someone to take care of my family member or friend while I attend the program. What kind of support is available?
A: If your family member or friend is connected to a community health centre (Long Term Care), respite may be arranged. A home support worker will come to your family member/friend’s home to provide care while you attend the program. If your family member or friend is not connected to a community health centre, an assessment can be arranged to determine eligibility for respite. Please contact your local community health centre or Caregiver Support Program for further details.
Q: Who can I contact for more information?
A: Please contact the Caregiver Support Coordinator at:
Vancouver Coastal Health
Caregiver Support Program
3425 Crowley Drive
Vancouver, BC, V5R 6G3
Tel: 604.877.4683
Fax: 604.872.2368
Email: caregiversupport@vch.ca