Young carers are children and young people who help to look after someone in their family or friends who is disabled, physically or mentally ill or has a substance misuse problem.
Young carers fall into three age groups, each with distinct characteristics and needs. These groups are:
- under 6 years old
- 6 to 14 years old
- 14 to 17 years old
Young adult carers are aged between 18 to 24, and often require support around education and employment.
Help for young carers
Carers in Bedfordshire provide a service for young carers:
- 121 support for young carers including a minimum of 6 sessions
- Activity clubs
- Peer mentor project
- Young Carers Newsletter
- Training workshops
- Awareness raising events and activities
- Support carers voice in strategy and decision making
- Carers Café
Young carers give different types of care
There are three main types of care which a young carer may be supporting someone with. These are:
Physical
- personal care
- household jobs
- meals
- errands
Emotional
- listening
- being there for them
- talking with them
- helping them to feel better
Taking responsibility
- keeping the person feeling safe
- administering medicines
- keeping appointments
- getting help if needed
