NEWS RELEASE
EMPOWER SIMCOE
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In partnership with Georgian College, Empower Simcoe is pleased to launch a transformative research project dedicated to understanding and enhancing caregiver services in our community.
This collaborative project includes a comprehensive community needs assessment to better support unpaid caregivers in Simcoe County.
Who are unpaid caregivers? They are the heartfelt heroes in our lives — family members, friends, and loved ones who provide essential daily care for individuals facing various challenges, such as physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities, medical conditions, mental health issues, or aging-related needs. According to the Ontario Caregiver Organization’s 2023 Spotlight Report, over four million individuals in Ontario are currently providing care for someone close to them. Fifty-two per cent of caregivers express a need for a well-deserved break, and 73 per cent worry about managing their caregiving responsibilities in the future.
“To truly understand the needs of caregivers in Simcoe County, these talented research students from Georgian College are launching a community-wide survey and hosting focus groups specifically for unpaid caregivers. They’ll also engage with community service agencies to gather insights on the services that matter most,” says Empower Simcoe CEO Dr. Claudine Cousins. “This meaningful partnership with Georgian College will inform future program planning for Empower Simcoe’s Family Relief Program, steering respite and caregiver services towards achievable caregiver outcomes.”
Empower Simcoe invites all unpaid caregivers in Simcoe County to take just a few minutes to complete the Simcoe County needs assessment for unpaid caregivers by Dec. 6, 2024 and share their voice with us. The input gathered will be invaluable in creating a support system that empowers unpaid caregivers in Simcoe County on their caregiving journey.
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