During Carers Week, Alliance Homes has announced the launch of a new service to support young adult carers (YAC) in North Somerset. The initiative forms part of the housing association’s existing Carers Support Service.
The new YAC project is for unpaid carers aged 17 to 25 and is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.
A carer is someone who looks after a family member, partner or friend who cannot cope without their help due to illness, disability, mental health needs or addiction.
According to Carers Trust, there are at least 376,000 young adult carers in the UK. In North Somerset, 8.8% of residents aged five and over provide unpaid care (2021 Census). The true figure is likely to be higher, as many people do not recognise themselves as carers.
Young adult carers often face challenges balancing their caring responsibilities with education and work. They are also at higher risk of not being in education, employment or training (NEET). Their caring role can also impact their mental health and wellbeing.
The YAC project offers one-to-one support based on individual needs, including help with education, employment, benefits and housing. It also provides opportunities to meet other young adult carers through respite sessions and activities.
Laura Argrave, Carers Service Manager at Alliance Homes, said: “We are very grateful for the funding from the National Lottery. This project will support young people as they move from being young carers into adult carers, giving them the help they need to access education, work and opportunities for their future.
“We know that when young carers turn 18, support can fall short. This service is here to close that gap, offering tailored support that reflects the realities of their lives and caring responsibilities.
“We have developed a YAC steering group, made up of young adult carers who will shape the direction of the project, while giving them wider opportunities to develop their employability skills and confidence.”
Jess, a young adult carer accessing the project describes her caring experience and hopes for the future, saying: “For a long time, I didn’t see myself as a carer. I was always focused on helping my brother and supporting my family, and at times it felt lonely and hard to manage, especially at school.
“As I’ve got older, I understand more about what being a carer means and the responsibility that comes with it. Now, my focus is on supporting my family while also prioritising myself, so I can build my future, do well in college and get a good job.”
Anyone who is a young adult carer, or knows someone who is, can find out more by emailing carersupport@alliancehomes.org.uk or visiting: www.alliancehomes.org.uk/YAC