Young Carers Action Day – Available Support in Birmingham
A young carer is someone under the age of 18 (they may be as young as five) who looks after a family member or a friend who has a physical or mental health condition or a drugs or alcohol problem. They do practical things like cooking, cleaning, shopping and going to doctors or to hospital appointments. They also give emotional support to the person they are caring for. Older young carers, aged 18-25, are also known as young adult carers who may juggle education and, or work as well as caring responsibilities.
Last week, ahead of the UK’s Young Carers Action Day (15 March), a new Carers Trust survey of young carers and young adult carers showed alarming findings. 56% of respondents to Carers Trust survey say the cost-of-living crisis is always or usually hitting them and their family. Read the full report here.
“I’d love to have kid problems. Instead, I’m saving up to try and pay our rent and to see if I can squeeze in some food at the end of it.”
Support for Young Carers in Birmingham
Spurgeons is an externally commissioned service providing a wide range of support and services for Young Carers. You can find out more and contact them here. If you are under the age of 18 then you usually need parental permission for you to be able to join Spurgeons Young Carers.
Homegroup offers information and advice to carers of any age, who support people with mental health needs. The support offered may include support access to respite, housing and finance. Carers can be referred to the service through agencies, by someone who thinks you need support or by calling directly on 0300 304 5530.
Support for Young Adult Carers in Birmingham
YMCA Sutton Coldfield is Birmingham Carers Hub’s delivery partner supporting Carers aged between 18 and 25. Find out what free support is available, or give YMCA a call on 0121 354 5614, email yac@birminghamcarershub.org.uk.
Meet the YMCA Team
The team will be at Gracechurch shopping centre, 15 March, 10.00am – 2.00pm or Solihull Sixth Form College, 15 March 12.30 – 1.30. There are also regular drop-ins across the city throughout the year, including sixth forms and colleges.
