New to Our Service? Questions Young Carers Often Ask
Whether you’ve already been referred or you’re just finding out about our service, you might have lots of questions. Here are some of the things young carers ask us most often.
A young carer is someone under 18 who helps look after a family member who has a long-term illness, disability, mental health condition or addiction.
You might help with practical tasks, provide emotional support, help look after a family member, care for younger siblings, or take on extra responsibilities at home.
Lots of young people don’t think of themselves as young carers at first.
If you regularly help or support a family member who has a long-term illness, disability, mental health condition or addiction, you may be a young carer.
Every family’s situation is different. Some young carers help with practical tasks, some provide emotional support, and others take on extra responsibilities at home. If you’re not sure whether you’re a young carer, that’s okay. Our team can help you understand whether our service is right for you.
We’ll usually speak to your parent or guardian first to learn more about your family’s situation and explain how we can help.
Once everything is set up, we’ll let your family know about activities and opportunities that are available for you.
Our youth clubs are a chance to relax, have fun and meet other young carers in a friendly and supportive environment.
We run three monthly youth clubs across different parts of the New Forest. Each session is different, but activities might include games, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, themed events and opportunities to learn new skills.
If it’s your first time attending, don’t worry. Lots of young carers come along without knowing anyone, and one of our team will always be there to help you settle in.
No. Most of our activities are designed to be fun and give young carers a break from their caring responsibilities.
We do sometimes run workshops and sessions that help young carers develop skills, build confidence and learn ways to cope with challenges they may face. Even during these sessions, you can share as much or as little as you want.
Some young carers enjoy talking about their experiences, while others prefer to come along, take part in activities and have fun.
There’s never any pressure to talk about anything you’re not comfortable sharing.
We run regular youth clubs and a range of other activities for young carers, including:
- Games and team activities
- Arts and crafts
- Sports and outdoor activities
- Cooking and baking
- Trips and events
- Workshops and special projects
Activities vary throughout the year, so there’s always something different to look forward to.
That’s completely normal.
Many young carers feel nervous before their first session, especially if they don’t know anyone. Our staff understand this and will help you settle in and feel welcome.
Lots of young carers tell us that they felt much more relaxed after their first visit.
You’ll be meeting other young people who understand what it’s like to have caring responsibilities at home, and our staff will help you feel included.
Most of the young people who attend our activities are young carers. Friends and siblings are welcome at our youth clubs and may sometimes be invited to other activities and events too.
You’re not expected to explain yourself, and you’ll be around people who understand the challenges that young carers can face.
No.
You can choose which activities you’d like to take part in.
Some activities have a limited number of places, which means we can’t always offer everyone a space. If you don’t get a place on one activity, don’t worry, there will be plenty of other opportunities to get involved.
We support young carers aged 7 to 18 years old.
Activities are usually organised so that young people spend time with others in a similar age group.
Yes.
If you’re struggling with something at home, school or in your personal life, you can talk to a member of staff. We’ll listen, support you and help you find the right help if you need it.
You can speak to one of our staff members at any activity or ask your parent or guardian to get in touch with us.
We’re always happy to answer questions and help you feel comfortable.
Remember: you’re not alone.
Being a young carer can sometimes feel challenging, but there are lots of other young carers who understand what you’re going through. We’re here to help you have fun, make friends, take a break from your caring responsibilities and access support when you need it.
We look forward to meeting you! 😊
