Because they spend a lot of time looking after another person, Young Carers can experience difficulties. At home they may help with cleaning the house, cooking, washing, housework, shopping, or managing money. Young Carers may help the person they care for with tasks like going to the toilet, having a bath, and dressing. They may also need to help the person get out of a chair or bed or give them medicine.

Sometimes Young Carers spend time listening when the person they look after is sad or depressed. They may worry about the person they look after and can find it difficult to express their own feelings and anxieties.

Young Carers may have difficulties at school if they are often late or don’t finish their homework on time, or they may worry about leaving their relative who is finding it hard to cope on their own. This means Young Carers can also miss out on family and social activities or not be able to get to where they want to go.

The Gloucestershire Young Carers Project, set up in 1993, has established a network of young carers groups across the country.  These groups enable young carers to meet other young people in a similar situation, offer an opportunity for mutual support and understanding, and importantly a break from their caring role and a chance to have some fun.  The young people take part in a variety of activities such as art, drama, cooking, bowling, to days out and weekends away. The Project can also provide advice and information, put you in touch with other professionals or organizations who can provide help and there is always someone to talk to who will listen and understand.

For further information about the project or to find out about a Young Carers groups near you -

Telephone      01452 733060

Log on to our website:   www.glosyoungcarers.org.uk