Project aimed at supporting young carers launched in Breckland

The programme aims to support local young carers.

Author: Abi SimpsonPublished 2nd Mar 2021
Last updated 2nd Mar 2021

Breckland Council's announced the launch of MyFuture:Social as part of a million pound investment in supporting vulnerable people in the community.

It's a series of online events which aims to build confidence, develop aspirations and build personal development of young carers aged between 16 and 24.

Young carers often find themselves looking after a family member who is ill, or helping them by looking after the other members of the family while they can't.

On top of providing emotional support to the person they are caring for, they may also have to learn how to nurse them or look after their personal needs like bathing and dressing.

That can often be exhausting both physically and mentally for the young person, and can affect friendship groups and their education.

The Council says it intends to run regular sessions allowing young carers to get involved and try something new, from comedy nights, creative arts like animation, graffiti arts to self-awareness and well-being.

Cllr Alison Webb, Executive Member for Health and Housing at Breckland Council commented: "Covid-19 has shown us how important it is to stay connected with our peers. My Future:Social is a fantastic way of young carers meeting up in a safe, fun space, with similarly aged people going through the same experiences.

"Even if you don't feel like you need help as a young carer, it is always good to have the support of others who understand your situation, so please register for your free place."

The programme will launch on March 18th and young carers can register for a place for free on the council's website.

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