Chronic Illness Alliance - Peer Support Network

Arthritis Victoria

Arthritis Victoria
263-265 Kooyong Road
Elsternwick
Victoria 3185

Name & Description of Peer Support Services Offered:

Arthritis Victoria's Network of self help and support groups

How can joining a group help me?

People with arthritis who lead fairly active and independent lives often ask this question. Many people say that they don't need "help", but might then say:

Where can I get more information about managing my arthritis?
Is there somewhere locally I can attend water exercise classes?
Most people don't understand what it's like to have arthritis.
Where can I go to talk to someone who understands?
The doctor says that I need replacement surgery - where can I talk with someone who's already had this operation?
I'd like to have fun socially, but with people who understand why I'm not as active as I used to be.
I would like to help other people because of my experiences over the years. Where could I start? Start with your local group.

What is an arthritis self help/support group?

An arthritis self help group can be somewhere that you can find understanding, advice, support, and information. It's not just a place where people go and complain about their aches and pains. It's more than that. They may educate health professionals and the local community. They may lobby the local, state or federal governments. They make a difference for people with arthritis.

Who joins a group?

Anyone of any age can join a group. Carers, partners, family and friends are welcome also. There are also several groups for people with a particular condition such as fibromyalgia and osteoporosis.

When are meetings held?

Most groups meet once a month for about two hours. There is time for a guest speaker perhaps, and there is always time for refreshments and a chat. Some groups meet at night, but most meet during the day.

Where do groups meet?

Meetings are held at a variety of venues. It may be a community health centre, a district hospital, a church hall or council meeting rooms, or wherever the members choose to meet.

The meeting places vary according to local resources. Check the location and contact details page to find a group near you.

Support from Arthritis Victoria

Specialised information and advice from Arthritis Victoria
Personal Accident and Public Liability Insurance for all groups
Books and videos may be borrowed from the Arthritis Victoria library for meetings by the groups.
Information brochures are supplied to groups free of charge.
Seminars held throughout the State.

Meeting Times & Venues:

Self help groups meet at over 70 different locations across the state. Contact Arthritis Victoria's Telephone Information Service 03 8531 8000 or visit the website www.arthritisvic.org.au for details.

Contact Details for more information:

Arthritis Victoria Telephone Information Service:
03 8531 8000
or 1800 011 041 for country callers.

Link to web page.

http://www.arthritisvic.org.au/pages.asp?d=5A4C5A717251477C7008060B030709