Information for young people who are affected by illness, disability or addiction in their family
A young carer is "anyone under the age of 18 whose life is in some way restricted by having to take care of somebody who:
- is experiencing physical or mental health problems,
- has a disability,
- has problems to do with drug or alcohol use, or
- has developed AIDS."
This covers siblings of disabled children and young people who are affected by any family member's illness, disability or addiction.
Young people in caring roles who would like advice or support can contact one of the following:
Do you need help with caring?
It may be, following an assessment visit from a social worker or care manager, that the cared for parent or relative is provided with assistance from the relevant Adults social care team.
The local Children and Families team can be asked to carry out a carer's assessment of the young carer, with a view to undertaking a risk assessment and / or providing support or information to the young person. To request an assessment for yourself simply telephone:
0845 045 5203
What kinds of things are on offer for Young Carers?
An example of what is on offer for young carers is the Teenage Carers Group in Huntingdon which offers a chance to socialise with other young people who have caring responsibilities, to have time off and have some fun.
Contact one of the young carers support workers on the numbers listed above for more information.