Young Carers
Am I a Young Carer?
“You're a young carer if you're under 18 and help to look after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem.
If you're a young carer, you probably look after one of your parents or care for a brother or sister.
You may do extra jobs in and around the home, such as cooking, cleaning or helping someone get dressed and move around.
You may also give a lot of physical help to a brother or sister who's disabled or ill.
Along with doing things to help your brother or sister, you may be giving them and your parents emotional support, too.”
Quoted from NHS website: Being a Young Carer - Your Rights
What skills have I developed being a Young Carer?
The following poster from 'Fixers' ("Young People using their Past to Fix the Future") shows the skills a carer develops from their responsibilities:
Young Carers Experiences of University
Watch the video below to hear about a young carers experience of University:
Student Experience - Izzy (approx. 2 minutes long)
The following articles also share young carers experiences of University:
What it's like to be a Young Carer for Family Members
Tessa's Story - 'Thrown into Caring'
Help with Education / Going to University
The following links and leaflets provide information on some of the support available for young carers in education and young carers going on to Higher Education:
Support with Education
UCAS - Students with Caring Responsibilities
Sheffield University Young Carers Leaflet
Bath Spa University Young Carers Leaflet
Financial Support
Young carers are eligible for extra financial support from Universities, which is usually non-repayable in the form of a grant. Check with your University choices to find out more.
Useful Contacts
Wiltshire Young Carers Service
01380 729 813
enquiries@youthactionwiltshire.org
Carer Support Wiltshire
0800 1814118
Wiltshire Online Community Support
BANES Young Carers Centre
0800 0388 885
Weston-super-Mare / North Somerset Young Carers Support
