Young Carers
A young carer is someone under 18 who helps look after someone in their family, or a friend, who is ill, disabled or misuses drugs or alcohol.
A Young Carer is someone who does what an adult would usually do, like:
Staying in the house a lot to be there for the Cared For
Helping them to get up, get washed or dressed, or helping with using the loo
Doing lots of the household chores like shopping, cleaning and cooking
Looking after younger brothers and sisters
Providing emotional support or a shoulder to cry on
Being a young carer can have a big impact when growing up:
It can affect a young person’s health, social life and self-confidence.
Many young carers struggle to juggle their education and caring which can cause pressure and stress.
In a survey, 39% said that nobody in their school was aware of their caring role.
26% have been bullied at school because of their caring role.
1 in 20 miss school because of their caring role.
Unfortunately, Young Carers frequently progress through life unidentified. You can help us rectify the situation as support is available for Young Carers aged 5 - 18 years of age, in Cumbria. We work with the Young Carer and family offering statutory Carers Assessments, 1:1 support and activities.
We work on a referral basis, which can come from the Young Carer themselves, family members or other professionals.
Contact your local carer's organisation and lets together help young carers maintain a positive caring experience.
Carlisle Carers - 01228 542156
Eden Carers - 01768 890280
Furness Carers - 01229 822822
South Lakeland Carers - 01539 815970
West Cumbria Carers - 01900 821976
Please if you have any questions contact one of our Carer Support Workers for more information on how we can help support a Young Carer.
https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/our-work-and-impact/children-and-families/young-carers/