There are people who can help young carers
Some young carers may find it difficult to talk about being a young carer. We call young carers ‘undercover heroes’ because of the important but often unseen role they take on. Young carers may worry that people think they aren’t coping, but it’s important to understand that there are people and organisations out there to help and support you, so you can balance your caring responsibilities with your personal life, and not miss out on things.
We have our own in-house young carers offer, but we have included some links below to other organisations and charities who offer support to young carers.
Carers in Bedfordshire
Carers in Bedfordshire offer support to sibling carers of children open to our Children with Disabilities team. All young carers can also apply for a Carers Grant, or for a Carers ID card on the website.
SNAP PCF (parent carer forum)
SNAP (Special Needs Action Panel) is an independent parent carer forum of people who have children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). SNAP supports parent carers to work together with professionals to make improvements to services provided for young people aged 0-25. To become a member of SNAP you must be a parent of a child or young person with SEND age 0-15 and live in Central Bedfordshire.
Carers Trust
Carers Trust can help with your wellbeing and advocate for your voice to be heard.
Sibs
Sibs is a charity that supports brothers and sisters of disabled children and adults, providing information, support and training on sibling issues for adult siblings, young siblings, parents and professionals.
The Children’s Society
The Children’s Society supports children and young people through challenging times, and campaigns for social changes that improve the lives of those who need it the most. Details of the Young Carers in Schools Award can be found here.
Recovery College
The Recovery College helps people improve their health and wellbeing through self-management techniques, including courses on a range of mental and physical health conditions.
Bedfordshire Wellbeing Service
Bedfordshire Wellbeing service offers a range of free and confidential talking therapies and specialist support to help you feel better. Self-referrals can be made through its website, or via a GP.