The impact of being a carer

Caring and helping to look after your family member, partner or friend may be having an impact for example on:

• getting to school on time
• doing homework on time
• not being able to spend time with friends or relaxing
• feeling left out with friends
• friends don’t understand what it is like for you, caring for your family member

If you are struggling then let an adult know such as a teacher.

This short animation will give the viewer an insight into the lives of young carers and hopefully encourage young carers to take steps to seek support:

In this video 13-year-old Jameal is a carer for his mum and he describes the struggles and positives of being a young carer.

You can contact Youth Support Service (YSS) Worcestershire Young Carers team or alternatively do a self-assessment using a QR code.

1. Contact YSS Worcestershire Young Carers team

Worcestershire Young Carers team from YSS provide support on behalf of the Council.

YSS understand what it is like to be a young carers and young adult carer. They can help to raise your self-esteem and confidence. The team provides the time and space to have fun and mix with other carers who understand what you do every day of your lives.

Contact the team via: YSS

2. Self-assessment

YSS Worcestershire Young Carers have developed a Viewpoint self assessment.

By filling in this self-assessment, you can review yourself to help you understand what help is available and what to do next.

Further information for young carers can be found at the following websites

• Young Carers to find out what support exists for young carers
• Carers Trust to access to information and advice

If you're finding it hard to cope, you could call Childline or join their online community.