Service for young carers in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire facing closure
They provide days out for children who care for ill or disabled family members
Last updated 4th Sep 2023
A service which provides respite and days out for young carers is facing closure as its funding comes to an end.
The Caring Together Charity supports children who help to look after a parent, brother or sister who is ill or disabled.
As well as support for young carers in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, it offers a range of support for carers of all ages across Cambridgeshire and Norfolk.
Children who are caring for a family member may get in trouble at school for being late or not completing homework, be exhausted during the school day, and completely miss out on fun after school activities and clubs.
They may struggle to make friends because they don’t have spare time to meet up, and their mental health can suffer.
The charity works with schools to set up support groups so the needs of the children are better understood.
It also provides trips out in school holidays so that children who are carers can have some valuable time off to have fun and make new friends.
Miriam Martin, chief executive of Caring Together said: “Young carers can face huge demands, but their role often goes unnoticed. It is vital they are given the help and support they need.
“Returning to school means they may be sitting in lessons worried about the person they look after and what is going on at home.
“There will be young carers trying to get homework done alongside doing the cooking, washing up, or cleaning. Their caring role may include getting someone washed and into bed, administering medication and doing the food shop.
“Having a break and the right support are essential. If you are able to help by making a donation, or are part of a company or organisation that can give your support to young carers, you will be making a massive difference.”
The funding previously provided by BBC Children in Need for Caring Together’s work with young carers in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has now ended.
The charity’s current support for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough children who are carers will stop early in 2024 unless the funding is provided from individuals’ donations, companies and other organisations, enabling this to continue.