Young carers

Getting help if you are a young carer

All young people who are carers in some capacity are entitled to a Young Carers Assessment. 

The assessment exposes whether they're facing any difficulties now, or are likely to in the future. As a result the council and other agencies can provide help and support.

The support provided is based on the individual’s situation. It could include:

• Information and advice.
• Flexible arrangements at school or college and emotional support.
• Trips, activities and clubs with other Young Carers, to make friends and build confidence.
• Help for the family to communicate how they feel, answer questions, and discover their aspirations.
• Support for carers with their caring responsibility, aimed at reducing their workload

What happens at the assessment?

At the assessment we ask you how you feel about looking after someone, to find out how we can support you. To do this, a family support worker will:

• Ask about the care needs of the person who has a health, or alcohol/drug concern. And who helps them, or could help them in the future.
• Ask about the amount, nature and type of care which is or will be provided by the Young Carer.
• Ask the Young Carer how they feel, any problems they are having and what they would like to happen. A key family member (e.g. parent) will also be present.
• Ask the Young Carer, or their parent if we can speak to other people they know to gather more information. This can include their teacher or doctor, or family and friends.
• Decide what help and support is needed and discuss this with the Young Carer and their family.
• Give a copy of the assessment to the family to read and keep.
• You can ask for other professionals to be included in the assessment and should ask when booking your reassessment.

Testimonials

Here are some of the things young carers are saying about the service:

• My life was chaotic then I found young carers.
• I thought I was alone then I found out there were other young people just like me who understood.
• Talking to other young carers helped me when my mum was really ill.
• I was always worried about people finding out I cared for my mum. Thanks to a young carers assessment now people are here to help and I can get to school on time.
• Thanks to a young carer's assessment our family was able to get help for my brother. So I could have more time with my mum.