Young Carers

The Work of Suffolk Young Carers
Suffolk Family Carers welcome referrals for young people aged 5 years and upwards, who are doing more than would usually be expected of a person their age, due to the long term condition of a family member. They refer to carers aged 16-24 years as young adult carers.

While some young carers offer practical help, others may provide more emotional support. Caring for a parent with a physical condition, for example, may involve physical help such as getting dressed or doing the cooking, but caring for a parent with a mental health problem, or who misuses drugs or alcohol, involves more emotional guidance and support. Sibling carers may feel the need to keep an eye on the brother or sister they care for or worry about them when they are in school.

Their team of experienced and knowledgeable advisers can offer:

• One to one catch up to provide well-being support.
• Opportunities to meet other carers and have a break from their caring role.
• Workshops and programmes to build confidence and life skills.
• Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
• Advice and support in school.
• Condition specific information to increase understanding and reduce worry.
• Advocacy when their voice needs to be heard.
• Signposting to other relevant agencies.
• They endeavour to support young people through crucial points of their life whether this is deciding on further or higher education or employment, or choices about independence.

The young people they work with say: “The advisers are very friendly and give you useful advice and information that will make you feel more happy and confident when speaking to others. Plus it’s a great way to make new friends who are in the same situations as yourself. It’s a great way to have a break from home.”