There are an estimated 175,000 young carers in the UK helping to care for a parent, grandparent or sibling.  We currently support around 100 young carers who have extra responsibilities because they care for a family member. Westminster Young Carers Service recognises the role of young carers and the fact that they might need support, help and advice. We know that the caring they provide may involve physical care, such as helping someone get up, get dressed or to get around. It could also involve providing emotional support, helping with translation, household chores and shopping.  Many young carers are also responsible for getting their siblings to and from school.

We offer young carers help and advice, advocacy and a variety of activities during school holidays to enable them to meet other young carers and have some time for themselves.

Because of their extra responsibilities young carers are at risk of isolation from their peers bullying,, under-achievement, and absenteeism from school,  and physical ill-health. It is vital that we support young carers and their families to enable the young person  to continue caring while maintaining their own mental and physical well-being and the opportunity to realise their fullest potential.

What we do to help

We  work with other voluntary and statutory agencies to support young carers and their families. Our service supports the whole family because we believe that by helping the family, we can lessen the responsibilities of  young carers.

Visit our Young Carers Service site for information about what we do to help or download a  Young Carers Service Referral Form