Volunteers with the Connect Volunteer Program use their lived caring experience to provide peer support for families, carers and supporters across the Barwon South West region
BEHIND many people experiencing mental health, substance use or neurodivergent challenges is a carer, family member or supporter helping them navigate daily life
While these caring roles are often grounded in love and commitment, they can also be emotionally exhausting, isolating and difficult to navigate alone
That’s why peer connection matters
Through the Connect Volunteer Program, delivered by Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect, people with lived caring experience are using empathy and understanding to support other carers across the Barwon South West Region
For volunteer Margherita, giving back through shared experience has been deeply rewarding
“Volunteering has been a true privilege,” she said. “[I love] working alongside compassionate people, supporting young carers and giving back to my community
“Being part of something that genuinely makes a difference in young people’s lives has been incredibly rewarding.”
Carer volunteers are not expected to have all the answers. What matters most is compassion, listening without judgement and the ability to connect through lived experience
These conversations help carers feel heard, understood and less alone
The program is flexible and fully supported, with training and ongoing guidance provided. Volunteers become part of a team that values wellbeing, connection and lived experience
Beth, general manager of services, said the program highlights the power of community and peer support
“Carer volunteers bring something incredibly valuable: lived understanding, compassion and hope,” she said
“Their willingness to support others through shared experience helps carers feel less alone and strengthens the wellbeing of our communities.”
In regional communities, where local connection matters, carer volunteers continue to play an important role in strengthening wellbeing and ensuring carers know support is close at hand
Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect is a free service for families, carers, supporters and kin of people experiencing mental health or substance use challenges
The service provides information, connection, peer support and guidance to help carers feel informed, supported and connected in their local community
Support is available for all ages and does not require a Medicare card or referral
Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centre services are delivered by Wellways in partnership with Tandem and Satellite Foundation, with funding provided by the Victorian government
To learn more about becoming a volunteer or accessing the Connect service, call 1300 000 717 or visit wellways.org/connect
