Young Carers Information
Who are Young Carers?
Are you a young person who helps look after someone at home or elsewhere? Maybe someone in your family, a neighbour, or a friend is unwell, has a disability, mental health issues, or might struggle with alcohol or drugs. If this sounds like your situation, you could be a Young Carer.
Young Carers are children and young people who help look after someone close to them who needs extra support. The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 says a carer is anyone who provides or plans to provide care for someone else
Being a Young Carer can be tough. You might feel tired, stressed, or even a bit lonely. You might struggle to keep up with schoolwork, arrive late to class, or miss out on hanging out with friends. Sometimes, you might not even realise you’re a Young Carer – does any of this sound like you or someone you know?
Access Self Help
Who can refer a Young Carer to the service?
Anyone can get in touch with us if they know a Young Carer who needs some extra support – this could be a parent, the Young Carer themselves, or even a teacher or social worker. If you’re a professional making a referral, please make sure the Young Carer and their family agree and know what kind of help they’re looking for from us.
What happens when a Young Carer is referred to us?
Once we hear from you, we’ll set up a time to meet with you and your family to chat about how you help at home and how it makes you feel. One of our friendly team members will talk with you and your parent or guardian to figure out how we can best support you. We’ll also offer a Young Carer or Wee Carer Statement to help with planning support around your needs.
How can we help you?
We know every Young Carer’s situation is different, so we offer lots of ways to help, including:
- Information, advice, and guidance
- Young/Wee Carer Statements
- Emotional support & practical help
- Support for you and your family
- Group activities and 1:1 support
- Fun trips and breaks away to relax
- Training and awareness sessions for other professionals who can help
- Bereavement support, and much more!
We’re here to help you feel supported and understood – and to make sure you still have time for school, friends, and fun! If any of this sounds like it could help, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here for you!
