More people in Werribee living with a chronic illness will get support from their local peer-led support groups thanks to an Andrews Labor Government funding boost.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas today announced applications were open for the Health Condition Support Grants Program.

The Andrews Labor Government is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of all Victorians, no matter where they live.

Not-for-profit peer-led support groups that help people better manage a chronic health condition can now apply for a share in $184,000 of grants.

In these groups, people with chronic diseases, their families and carers can meet, share their experience with peers with the same illness and learn first-hand how to best manage the condition and enjoy a better quality of life.

Top priority health conditions for funding are heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, depression, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease and oral disease.

The grants cover the group’s general expenses and operating costs such as meeting space rental, administration and publicity, and minor equipment such as printers.

This means peer-led support groups can continue to support people to better manage their disease, to learn more about it, to make better decisions about their care and to helps them to live well.

Half of all Victorian adults report having at least one chronic disease, and one in five has two or more chronic diseases.

The Health Condition Support Grants Program is now open and applications close on Friday, 14 July, 2017. Groups with statewide, regional or local focus may apply for grants up to $5000.

For more information or to apply for a grant visit https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/primary-and-community-health/primary-care/integrated-care/integrated-chronic-disease-management/health-conditions-support-grants.

Quotes attributable to Member for Tim Pallas MP

“Peer-led support groups can make a real difference for people learning to cope after being diagnosed with a chronic illness”

 “It’s a great chance to make friends, talk and share experiences with peers who are enjoying full and independent lives while living with a chronic illness.”

“I encourage peer-led support groups in Werribee to apply for a grant that will support their invaluable work improving the lives of people with a chronic health condition.”