Somerset Young Carers

The definition of a Young Carer is: if you are under 18 and look after someone by providing substantial and regular care that persists over time and is important in maintaining the health, safety or day-to-day well-being of the person cared for and the wider family.

The types of tasks being carried out are often regular and substantial, which would usually be associated with an adult. The term does not apply for everyday and occasional help around the home that may often be expected of or given by children in families.

This could be helping to care for a physically disabled parent or sibling, or a parent experiencing mental ill health, alcohol or drug misuse. The caring role would usually be having a detrimental impact on the young person’s development, such as difficulties at school, emotional difficulties or social isolation.

YMCA Groups across Somerset run Young Carers Groups. Please get in touch with your local branch for more information.

Please refer to the links in the sidebar for further support links for Young Carers in Somerset.

Once a Young Carer reaches 18 years old, they are entitled to support from Somerset Carers and will be aided with the transition into our service.