Gloucestershire Young Carers offers support for children and young people aged between 8-24 who care for a family member.
Research indicates that 1 in every 12 secondary school age children are likely to take on substantial caring responsibilities, and that being a young carer can reduce aspirations, negatively affect health and wellbeing, and increase risks of children becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).
The charity estimates that there are around 7,000 young carers in Gloucestershire whose lives are detrimentally affected by having a family member who is ill, disabled, experiencing mental ill health or has substance misuse issues.
Gloucestershire Young Carers aims to reduce the impact of the caring role, provide support practically and on an emotional level, and empower young people to achieve their aspirations in spite of their adult-sized challenges at home.
The charity’s services include support programmes for young people, one to one support for the most vulnerable, and targeted support for young carers with specific issues such as substance misuse in the family.
One Young Carer said: “If I was Harry Potter then Gloucestershire Young Carers would be my Hogwarts.”
Global’s Make Some Noise proudly supports Gloucestershire Young Carers to continue delivering high standards of support and advice to all young carers in the community. It is hoped that continuing support will help reduce truancy, reduce the risk of young carers being taken into care, and empower young carers to fulfil their potential.