Welcome to Dudley Young Carers!
We know that being a Young Carer can sometimes feel like a lot. You’re juggling school, friendships, and responsibilities at home that most people your age don’t have. We’re here to help you manage it all, making sure you have the support, time, and space to enjoy your life while caring for someone close to you.
What do Young Carers do?
Every Young Carer’s life is different. Every family is too. Some young people help a little, and some help a lot.
You might help someone at home feel safe and comfortable. You could help with jobs around the house, like cooking, cleaning, or reminding someone to take their medicine.
Sometimes being a Young Carer also means giving emotional support. This might mean listening, cheering someone up when they feel sad, or worrying about things at home. That can feel like a lot to carry, especially when you are also thinking about school, friends, and your own life.
It’s important to remember that you should never be asked to do anything unsafe. You deserve help and understanding. With the right support, being a Young Carer can feel easier, and school and home can work better for you too.
Are You a Young Carer?
You might be a Young Carer if you help to look after someone in your family who needs extra support. That could be because they have a long-term illness, a disability, mental health needs, a learning disability, or problems with drugs or alcohol.
Being a Young Carer does not always mean doing big tasks. You might help with cooking, cleaning, shopping, looking after brothers or sisters, or helping an adult in your family to manage appointments, medicine, or phone calls.
If this sounds like you, you are not alone. Being a Young Carer is not your fault, and it is okay to ask for help. Support is there to make things easier at home and at school, and to help you have time to be a young person too.
What we Do:
If you’re a young person aged 5-17 and you’re helping look after someone at home, we’re here to make sure you have fun, feel supported, and get the help you need. Here’s what we can help with:
- Find Friends: Join in with our activities where you can meet other young Carers, play games, and have fun.
- Get Support: We’re here to listen and support you with anything you need.
- Learn New Things: Take part in exciting workshops and training sessions.
- Feel Confident: We’ll help you with school transitions and getting ready for future jobs.
Services include:
- Regular youth clubs for fun activities and making friends.
- Information and advice on a wide range of issues.
- Referrals to other helpful services.
- Training sessions and workshops.
- Support with school and future planning.
