In Warwickshire, thousands of children and young people regularly assist members of their family with daily tasks because a family member has a disability, long term illness, mental health conditio...
In Warwickshire, thousands of children and young people regularly assist members of their family with daily tasks because a family member has a disability, long term illness, mental health condition or has a substance dependence. They are our young carers and their numbers and the scale of their responsibilities are not fully known.
The work they do ranges from helping with everyday household tasks like cooking and cleaning, to assistance with personal care, administering medication, translating and completing documentation, assisting at appointments to name a few. This means young carers often don’t have the time to do school work, socialise with their friends or enjoy fun activities like their peers.
Warwickshire is committed to supporting these children and young people (our young carers) and commissions expert support services to ensure they are recognised and can access the help they need to support their families.
Warwickshire Young Carers has recently been awarded the contract to provide support to our young carers. The service has been working with young people in the county since 1999 and currently has over 2,600 young carers known to them. The service provides activities and groups as well as 1 to 1 support in the community and in schools.
Izzi Seccombe, Leader of Warwickshire County Council said: “Warwickshire Young Carers is a fantastic support network that will serve the young residents of Warwickshire well. The provision of support for both the young carer and their family is second to none and one which we are proud to endorse. We know everyone who cares may not identify as carers and recognise the vital role they play. To ensure they get the support they are entitled to, we urge our partners who may come into contact with young carers to ensure they are aware of the support available."
Anthony Bishop, Manager from Warwickshire Young Carers said: “We offer a wide range of services, which includes participatory support networks away from their caring responsibilities, all of which are of a similar age and background. We facilitate opportunities for young carers to take time for themselves, to relax, have fun and make new friends.”
Rachel Faulkner, newly appointed Chief Executive from Warwickshire Young Carers said: “We work with some of the most complex families across the county and a range of professionals to support the additional needs of our young carers. The service is proud to work with Warwickshire County Council and we are looking forward to continuing to deliver this new contract.”
Warwickshire Young Carers also promotes the right of young carers to be offered an assessment to help them get information and support they need.
If you or anyone you know is caring for another person please visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/carers
For more information about Warwickshire Young Carers please visit www.warwickshireyoungcarers.org.uk
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