Raising awareness of young carer roles
EFFORTS have been launched to make sure young carers receive the support they need in Runcorn and Widnes.
Halton Carers Centre and Halton Borough Council have teamed up to run an awareness campaign in schools in the run-up to Young Carers Awareness Day on Thursday, January 26.
All primaries and secondaries in the borough will receive posters and information to put on notice boards and small-group activity ideas from The Carers Trust.
Pupils will also have the opportunity of being directed to Halton Council services.
Schools have also been encouraged to apply for the national Young Carers In Schools Award by contacting Janice Maddison on 0151 511 6222 or Halton Carers Centre on 01928 580 182.
Halton Young Carers Team and young carers from the Spoken And Heard group will be hosting a stall at Runcorn Asda superstore on January 26 to raise awareness about young people tasked with looking after family members. There will be information about where to access support or how to take part.
Young Carers Awareness Day takes place to recognise the contributions of an estimated 700,000 young carers in the UK.
Cllr Marie Wright (health and wellbeing) said: “We want Young Carers Awareness Day 2017 to be a day where everyone recognises the challenges that young carers face.
“We want people to understand how difficult it can be for young carers to realise their hopes and dreams for the future unless they have the right support in place.
“This year’s theme is ‘when I grow up’ and it’s all about helping young carers to achieve their dream jobs or career, and we want everyone to be a part of it.
“We’ll be highlighting how some of the 700,000 young carers across the UK are caring for their sick or disabled mum, dad, brother or sister and how it is impacting their lives.”
Janice Maddison, Halton Council strategy board chairwoman, said: “We have some great young carers in Halton who work with us to shine a spotlight on the young carers role and show that this does not need to get in the way of young people’s aspirations and hopes for the future.”
“We know there are lots of young carers out there who still remain hidden and we would encourage you to step forward – speak to any adult or worker you feel comfortable with, maybe a teacher, youth worker, someone from a local children’s centre or check out the contact numbers in ‘Brighter Futures’.
“The Carers Centre and local groups such as the Canal Boat Adventure Project and The Studio have lots going on and if you are struggling with your caring role can help you get to any additional support you might need.”
Young carers or professionals who need advice should call the young carers team at the carers centre on 01928 580 182.