Young Carers
Young Carers are children and young people aged 18 or under and still at school who look after someone at home who is unable to cope without support due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction.
The Young Carers service provides information and training on Young Carers rights and services. A Young Carers Worker is there to listen and advocate on behalf of Young Carers. We can also speak to schools and other professionals to help get the best outcome for Young Carers.
The Young Carers service offers opportunities to have fun, learn new things and meet other young people who are going through a similar situation whilst getting a break from their caring role.
Caring responsibilities are unique to each Young Carer.
Here are some examples
- Shopping
- Cooking
- Looking after siblings
- Emotional support
- Companionship
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- Personal Care
- Helping with medication
- Housework
- Helping with mobility at home
We provide weekly and monthly support groups for young Carers aged 8 to 18.
Respite breaks for primary and secondary groups can be provided to have some time away from their caring role during school holidays.
Renfrewshire Carers Centre partner with:
to provide a range of social activities for Young Carers depending on their interests.
These groups are uniquely for Young Carers where they can relax and feel comfortable with others in the same situation.
We can also support Young Carers to attend mainstream groups e.g. scouts, football clubs, boxing lessons.
How Young Carers are supported in Schools
‘Young carer services coming into school and talking to teachers to make them more understanding. They also let the school know on my behalf which was a lot easier.’ Young carer
Young Carer Voice Consultation Event 2021, Carers Trust Scotland
Our Young Carers Education Worker, Sheena can offer various supports in schools for young carers, such as:
- Liaise with Guidance/promoted Primary staff
- Young Carer Statement
- One to One support
- Group/Peer support
- Help with Young Scot card
- Young Carer Grant application
- Support though transitional periods, such as leaving school.
Awareness raising workshops can be offered for Primary 4 – S6, these will be specifically tailored to suit the age range of the audience in order to
- To increase self awareness of their own responsibilities and in turn, help some young people self-identify as a young carer.
- To give pupils an insight into the difficulties that young carers may face which can help to reduce the stigma among peer groups.
Please contact Sheena Brock on enquiries@renfrewshirecarers.org.uk or call 0141 887 3643 if you would like involvement from the Young Carers Project in your school.
