Emergency planning

It is important to plan ahead. Planning for future emergencies can bring a family peace of mind.

Planning ahead ensures you can let other people know what is required for effective care should you suddenly be unavailable as a carer. It can also ensure that you will have appropriate steps in place if you need to suddenly take over health, lifestyle or financial decisions for the person you support.

Most importantly planning for future emergencies ensures the person you support receives the support they need and desire when they are capable of making decisions and being involved in the planning.

Your Carer Information Pack contains a Carer Emergency Card. This is designed to let people know that somebody depends upon you for their wellbeing and to give the contact details of people who can help in an emergency.

You can get free Carer Emergency Carer cards from your local Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre . Keep your card up to date and carry it with you at all times.

You should also include the details of your emergency contacts if you carry a Medic-Alert card or wear a Medic-Alert bracelet or necklace.

For more information

Contact your local Commonwealth Respite and CarelinkCentrre on free call 1800 052 222 for free copies of the 'Emergency Care Plan' and 'Carer Emergency Card'

Download an 'Emergency Care Plan' as part of the 'Carer Information Pack'