Young carers and young adult carers

Gloucestershire Young Carers (GYC) works with and for children and young people aged 8-24 who have caring responsibilities. Its aim is for young carers to have the same opportunities as their peers and not be disadvantaged by their circumstances. The person cared for may have a long-term illness, a disability, experience mental ill health or be affected by problematic substance misuse.

GYC offers young carers’ assessments and support planning to identify any support services carers may need. The cared for are referred to appropriate agencies to reduce the caring role on young carers. GYC provides direct services through personcentred information, activity groups, wellbeing groups, participation and specialist support for young carers caring for someone with addiction problems and/or mental ill health.

GYC also has a service for young adult carers aged 16-24 including:

• Support from friendly young adult carer (YAC) workers.

• Help with applying for jobs, work experience, training courses, university or college.

• ‘Caring Counts’, a unique short course.

• Help with accessing free counselling and other specialist support.

• Fun day trips and workshops.

• The chance to meet other young adult carers and make new friends.

• Advocacy support (talking to school, college, university or work to help them understand your caring role).

• Referral to adult carers’ services. Visit www.glosyoungcarers.org.uk, email mail@glosyoungcarers.org.uk or call 01452 733060