Young carers

There are over 2,000 people aged under 18 years of age who are 'young carers' in Staffordshire.

Young carers provide, or intend to provide, care, assistance or support to another family member who is disabled, physically or mentally ill, or has a substance misuse problem.

Sometimes it can be difficult to recognise someone as a young carer - but does this sound like your family or a family you know?

I am a young carer.  Where can I get support?

If you live in Staffordshire or care for someone who lives in Staffordshire there is support for you at the Staffordshire Together for Carers Service. They support carers by providing tailored advice, training and information a whole range of topics and situations.

Young carers can carry out significant or substantial caring tasks, taking on a level of responsibility that is well above what should be expected from a young person.

As well as the daily tasks, such as housework, cooking and bathing, young carers live with the added pressure of school. Caring can be satisfying but it can also be exhausting and make great demands on a young person's time, health and emotions. 

Carers of all ages can contact the County Council for information, advice and support related to their caring role. Young Carers have their own dedicated telephone number should they wish to speak to a Young Carers Assessor.

Adult Carers: 0300 111 8010

Young Carers: 01785 278444

General Enquiries: firstcontactcarers@staffordshire.gov.uk

Further information

• Carers UK
• Carers Trust
• Alzheimer's Society - Caring for a person with Dementia
• Health and wellbeing information and advice
• NHS Choices - care and support
• Childline - a counselling service for children and young people. No problem is too big or too small, so whether you are feeling scared or out of control or just want to talk to someone, phone: 0800 1111.
• Counselling directory - support for young carers