Support groups for carers and supporters of people with ME/CFS and long COVID, offer safe, understanding spaces to share experiences, gain emotional support and access practical strategies. Our aim is to reduce isolation, build resilience, and empower caregivers through community, connection and shared strength in navigating these challenging conditions.
How Our Groups Work
- Group Size: Up to 12 participants
- Facilitators: Each group is hosted by a trained Emerge Australia facilitator
- Session Format: 5 virtual sessions, held every two weeks
- Ongoing Support: After the initial sessions, your group can continue meeting as part of our Volunteer Peer Support Community to stay connected
We provide two dedicated spaces on Microsoft Teams for your group:
- A private space for written communication and updates
- Live session links for each virtual session (sessions are not recorded)
Volunteer Peer Support: After the professionally facilitated sessions, groups can transition into our Volunteer Community Champions pilot program. This initiative trains group members to volunteer as peer moderators, supporting the continuation of your group. More information will be shared during the sessions.
What You’ll Need to Join
- A computer, tablet, or phone that can download and run Microsoft Teams
- A stable internet connection
Please Note:
Your username for Microsoft Teams will be the start of your email address. For example, if your email is [email protected], your username will be jo.smith. Some participants choose to create a new email address for added privacy.
Carers – Standing Beside
A caring space for partners of adults living with ME/CFS or long COVID. This group offers understanding, connection, and support for those navigating the ups and downs of caring for and living alongside a partner with these conditions.
This Virtual Support Group will start at 1:00pm AEST on the following Tuesdays:
- 21/04/2026
- 05/05/2026
- 19/05/2026
- 02/06/2026
- 16/06/2026
- 30/06/2026*
*This 6th session is a meeting with Emerge Australia’s support staff to discuss next steps for the group.
Carers – Steady Support
A caring community for parents and guardians supporting an adult child with ME/CFS or long COVID. This group offers space to connect, share, and feel understood by others walking a similar path.
This Virtual Support Group will start at 1:00pm AEST on the following Wednesdays:
- 22/04/2026
- 06/05/2026
- 20/05/2026
- 03/06/2026
- 17/06/2026
- 01/07/2026*
*This 6th session is a meeting with Emerge Australia’s support staff to discuss next steps for the group.
Carers – Holding Both
A supportive space for people who live with ME/CFS or long COVID and also have caring responsibilities for someone else. Together, we’ll share experiences, acknowledge the challenges of balancing the caring role while managing a chronic illness, and find understanding and encouragement from others in similar situations.
This Virtual Support Group will start at 1:00pm AEST on the following Thursdays:
- 23/04/2026
- 07/05/2026
- 21/05/2026
- 04/06/2026
- 18/06/2026
- 02/07/2026*
*This 6th session is a meeting with Emerge Australia’s support staff to discuss next steps for the group.
 
								 
								