Carers are the heart of our organisation. They make a significant difference in the life of those in our care, helping them achieve exceptional results.
Life Without Barriers carers are of all ages (aged 18 and over) and from a wide range of backgrounds, but the starting point for almost all carers is the realisation that they could make the difference.
We have more than 1700 carers looking after children, young people and adults with disabilities, special needs and challenging behaviours. They receive ongoing training and are recognised as some of the best foster carers in Australia and New Zealand.
Carer Support
We support our carers in a number of ways:
- Every carer is allocated a dedicated SOC (Supporter of Carer) worker for 24-hour support.
- Carer Mentor Buddy System.
- Regional support groups and networks.
- Quarterly newsletters.
- Online access to support materials, training opportunities and relevant communication to help them in their role.
- Carer Conference that inspires, rewards, trains and facilitates networking with other Life Without Barriers carers and professionals.
- Formal training opportunities and casual information sessions.
- Financial recompense for their care services.
- Benefits through our Carer Loyalty Program. For more information on the program, click here. To join the program, complete the Carer Loyalty Registration form.
Carer Recruitment
Unfortunately there's a high need for foster carers across Australia and New Zealand, and this need is growing all the time. That's why we're always on the lookout for committed and quality carers.
Life Without Barriers offers a range of opportunities to suit your individual situation. For example, if you're unable to open your home to someone full-time, why not consider becoming a respite carer on weekends.
Our carers have the opportunity to help shape our services through dedicated Consultation Groups, forums and an annual carer survey.
Enquire now to make a difference in someone's life as it may be one of the most significant things you do!
Comments From Our Carers
"I enjoy watching the young people change as they are offered new opportunities and a stable and safe environment."
Carer (Far North Coast, NSW, Australia)
"To be successful in the carer role you need to be passionate about helping young people, open minded, non-judgemental and a good communicator."
Sean Taylor, foster carer in NSW, Australia and winner of the Foster Parents Support Network 2007 Worker of the Year Award
"Don't think about the possibility that the child may have to return to their family, because by doing this you will hold back some part of you. All children leave us at some stage, even our own children. Love them like they will be with you forever so that the time they spend with you will be a really true loving family experience not just a long visit."
Lorraine, foster carer and consultation group member in Fremantle, WA, Australia
"Don't look back on last year, last week or even yesterday, look forward. Start each new day with a new beginning, a new memory and a new lesson to be learnt. In life you do not make mistakes, you make choices and learn from those choices."
Emma, foster carer in Townsville, QLD, Australia
"Looking back over 15 years of caring for teenagers and young children I remember some really frustrating and difficult times, however the predominant memories are of the funny, outrageous and great times we have had. On top of this we have the satisfaction of knowing that we have really made a difference. Living with these young people is just like living with my wife, sometimes they are difficult to live with, but you can't live without them."
Robert, foster carer in Lake Macquarie, NSW, Australia
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