Let's celebrate young carers

[Mencap_online_comms]

Today is Young Carers Action Day (YCAD), so you may see lots of stories in the media about young carers.

This short video on Twitter is great - twitter.com/i/status/137176... - it really gets across what being a young carer is all about, and how other young people can best help them.

A young carer is someone under 18 who helps look after someone in their family, or a friend, who is ill, disabled, has a mental health condition or misuses drugs or alcohol. Find out on the Carers Trust website here - carers.org/about-caring/abo...

Do you know a young carer?

It can be hard to find time to fit everything in when you a carer.

Most schools offer support for young carers, and many local carers centres run regular groups for young carers. These groups can be a vital lifeline, a chance to meet other young people who face similar challenges.

Please do see what is available in your area if this affects you.

You can find out more about Young Carers Action Day here - carers.org/young-carers-act...

You could also contact the SIBs charity (sibs.org.uk/) which is a charity for brothers and sisters of disabled children and adults.

[BenjiB]

My eldest is severely autistic. Although my younger two don’t care for him as such their lives are completely different to that of most if their friends. There are no family days out, meals out or holidays. They’ve also never had much of my time due to their brothers needs. They are fortunate to be part of young carers at their school. It’s been great for them to be with other kids whose home life isn’t like most families, In non covid times they also have days out etc. These groups really are great. Also my daughter was able to attend school during lockdown which was a huge help as she struggles academically herself x

[Sarah_Mencap in reply to BenjiB]

Hello BenjiB

Thank you so much for sharing this. It is great to hear that school is supporting your children.

I used to work for a local carers centre and the young carers groups were wonderful. They were just a chance to meet other children who understood what it was like. No need for explanations or worries about what people might think. Just a chance to have fun and have trips out.

Best wishes

Sarah