A Young Carer is a young person under the age of eighteen who has adult caring responsibilities.

They may help care for a sibling, a parent or a grandparent who has a medium to long term illness, disability or alcohol or substance problem. In some cases they can be caring for more than one person.  

What our service offers- 

• Confidential support, advice and a listening ear to Young Carers in Orkney and their Families.
• Free monthly activity sessions for Young Carers to meet, relax and have fun to give them a break from caring, help them to gain confidence and encourage them to socialise and to support each other.
• Although not our main focus, the service inadvertently provides some respite to parents while Young Carers attend sessions.
• An assessment of the Young Carers needs.
• One to one support for Young Carers who either need additional support or do not feel comfortable in a group situation.
• We can also refer Young Carers on to more specialised support with a counsellor if needs be.

Contact- Lynn Bartlett, Young Carers Support worker.