Support Groups

There are presently seven existing support groups

Meeting content is determined by the caregivers with the assistance of a facilitator.

One group arranged for a workshop on healing touch. Group members left with practical tips with which to help the person they are caring for.

In another group, a local RCMP officer explained the procedure for assisting a "wandering person", listened to the group's concerns and left with a better understanding of their needs.

Beyond the general good that comes from social contact, sharing and exchange of ideas, the change in the lives of certain members stand out.

One young woman, looking after her ill 78 year old father in her home, first came to our meetings under medication for depression. Within one year, she was better able to handle stress and her joyous, humorous personality returned.

Another woman who said the group was her only social life, now meets regularly with new friends, goes to dances and other social events.

A man looking after his wife with multiple sclerosis, had been quiet at group meetings for some time except for angry outbursts. He now gladly shares his "respite outings" plans for his one free day a week.

The caregiver support groups offer a chance for people in similar situations to connect and share their experiences, feelings, strategies and information about helpful resources. All groups meet every month:

Duncan Group
1st & 3rd Tuesday, 1:30-3:00pm
Duncan United Church
246 Ingram St (Fellowship Room)

Monday Evening Group
2nd Monday, 7:00-8:30pm
John Horgan's Office, Valleyview Centre
1400 Cowichan Bay Rd

Shawnigan Lake/Mill Bay Group
4th Thursday, 1:30-3:30pm
Shawnigan Lake Community Centre
2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd

Ladysmith Group
2nd Tuesday, 2:00-4:00pm
Ladysmith Health Centre
1111 4th Avenue (upper boardroom)

Chemainus Group
Chemainus Seniors' Drop-in Centre
9824 Willow St.

Lake Cowichan Group
2nd Friday, 10:00-11:30am
Lake Cowichan Community Services
89 Lakeview Ave.

First Nations Group
Please phone for location and time