YOUNG carers in Warwickshire are being offered a helping hand.
Warwickshire Young Carers has recently been awarded a contract from Warwickshire County Council to provide support to young people helping family members with disabilities, long term illnesses, mental health conditions or a substance dependence.
The work the charity does ranges from helping with everyday household tasks like cooking and cleaning, to assistance with personal care, administering medication, translating and completing documentation and assisting at appointments.
It means young carers do not often have time to do their school work or socialise with their friends.
The charity has been working with young people in the county since 1999 and currently knows of more than 2,600 young carers.
The service provides activities and groups as well as one to one support in the community and in schools.
Charity chief executive Rachel Faulkner said: “We work with some of the most complex families across the county and a range of professionals to support the additional needs of our young carers. The service is proud to work with Warwickshire County Council and we are looking forward to continuing to deliver this new contract.”
County council leader Izzi Seccombe added: “Warwickshire Young Carers is a fantastic support network that will serve the young residents of Warwickshire well. The provision of support for both the young carer and their family is second to none and one which we are proud to endorse.
“We know everyone who cares may not identify as carers and recognise the vital role they play. To ensure they get the support they are entitled to, we urge our partners who may come into contact with young carers to ensure they are aware of the support available.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/carers for information on support.
