‘We care for them like family’: A Filipino touch in disability support
Caregiving for many Filipinos is more than a job; it’s about fostering strong connections and creating an environment where clients feel a sense of belonging and familial care. Join us in uncovering the deeply rooted connections, challenges faced, and heartwarming rewards experienced by those shaping the landscape of care for individuals with disabilities in Australia.
Sydney-based counsellor and psychotherapist, Manna Maniago, founded Kairos Care three years ago as a Disability and Support Services provider. Since its inception, the company has expanded its workforce to over seventy employees, consisting of carers and support workers, with forty percent of them being Filipinos.
“It’s a challenging industry, but it’s very rewarding”, Manna shares.
Recent reports from the National Disability Insurance Scheme Review in December highlighted an ongoing shortage of disability workers in the country. Among the challenges identified were skill mismatches in some caregivers and the difficulty in retaining them within the sector.
Manna emphasizes her belief in the capabilities of Filipino individuals in providing care and support. As part of her plans for 2024, she is opening doors for onshore students and disability support workers from the Philippines to join the workforce in Australia, contributing to addressing the shortage.
“Having that chance to sponsor other students and other people from overseas, it will allow them to have the opportunity to work and stay here in Australia”
Beyond caregiving
Manna explains that for many Filipinos, caregiving means much more than a job—it’s deeply rooted in the culture to build strong connections. This way of caring creates a place where a person don’t just get help; they feel like they belong and are cared for, like they’re part of a family.
Some exceptional support workers in Manna’s company include Maria, Shan, and Malcolm.
Maria discovered her love for caring after doing different jobs. But it was when she started helping those with disabilities that she found what truly makes her happy.
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