AFC Totton
NEW FOREST YOUNG CARERS support children and young people aged 7-18 in the New Forest who care for a family member with a disability, physical or mental illness or substance abuse problem.
This could be anything from a mum with MS, a dad with bipolar or a brother with autism and behavioural problems. Because of this, young carers can often miss out on a regular childhood.
Every young carer’s situation is different but the help they provide can include shopping, cleaning, housework, laundry, nursing, childcare for siblings and emotional support.
Caring for someone can be very worrying, isolating and stressful. Research by Action for Children has revealed that one in three young carers said their caring role makes them feel stressed, and that 23% of young carers in the UK said their caring role had stopped them from making friends.
We support young carers and their families by providing information and advice, one-to-one work and mentoring, school support and signposting to other services. We also organise trips and activities so they can have some valuable time out from their responsibilities to have fun and meet other young carers like themselves. To find out more, please contact [email protected]
Visit our website at www.cfirst.org.uk/wellbeing/young-carers
New Forest Young Carers take part in a football training session led by AFC Totton's Luke Hallett (right).
What people have said about New Forest Young Carers:
“It’s good to meet other young carers... I thought I was the only one. And I’ve got to do things I wouldn’t have otherwise.”
“Your activities have helped my son to become more sociable. He is starting to feel like he can come out of his shell. He is beginning to understand that my disability is not going to affect his life as much, thanks to your services, and he is beginning to connect with other children in your group. This is great for his mental health. I can’t emphasise how much I appreciate your help.”
Make a difference in the lives of local young carers by donating today. Whether large or small, your donation will make a difference to our young carers. You can visit our JustGiving page at:
www.justgiving.com/campaign/newforestyoungcarers
New Forest Young Carers is part of Community First;
Registered Charity in England & Wales No.1147527.
