Young Carer Project

A new project which aims to establish and develop a ‘Young Carers Support Group’ to allow young people to access opportunities for engaging in out of the area respite facilities (Kingswood Centre) which specialise and facilitate learning and developmental activities for young carers living with parents/family members who are alcohol and/or substance dependent.

Young Carer involvement will include:

• Helping to establish and develop a peer led support group through designing and producing marketing materials to help promote the group to other young carers.
• Playing an integral role in establishing the aims and objectives.
• Assisting in the direction and project delivery with key elements.

A Mother of Two

“I am a mother of two children; my oldest is a drug-user. I felt that it was my fault and tried to force him to stop. His addiction led him to a life of crime, but not only did it leave him with no money, it led the family into financial hardship as he would constantly come to me for money.

I joined the group and now realise I am not alone and meeting with others helps to lighten the bad, but does not take it away.

Since I joined the group things have changed, with the support of the group, I have learned to handle the worry of my son. I have helped him to build his confidence and he is now working. I am also in full time employment. I don’t think I could have done all this without the support of the friends I have made in the group.”