Wokingham Young Carers

28 June 2023

We are delighted to be working with Wokingham Borough Council’s Wokingham Carers Partnership to support local young carers.

Wokingham Young Carers, delivered by Berkshire Youth, aims to better identify and provide support for young carers to develop emotionally and physically, as well as being able to take full advantage of opportunities for educational achievement and life success.

Young Carer Definition
Young carers are defined as children and young people (up to the age of 18) whose lives are affected by looking after someone with a disability or long-term illness. The person they care for may be a parent, a sibling, another family member or a friend, but need not necessarily live in the same house as them. The care that young carers give may be practical, physical and / or emotional.

Our Approach
When assessing the support required by a young carer, it is important to take into account the needs of the whole family and how these needs impact on one another. There is a need to be sensitive to cultural perceptions and needs around disability, illness and caring whilst recognising a child’s fundamental rights to a safe and secure childhood.

What We Provide

• Weekly respite sessions for 8 – 18-year-olds
• Holiday activities for 8 – 18-year-olds
• Family support
• A listening ear
• Support, information and guidance

Coming soon:

• 16 – 19-year-old transitional group (becoming an adult carer)
• School awareness and support
• 1-2-1 support where required
• Residentials

Referrals
If you are a professional or a family member who would like to submit a referral for our service please click here. A copy of the referral will be sent to you upon completion. For any queries or questions please do not hesitate to email us at admin@berkshireyouth.co.uk or phone our office 0118 909 0927.

Volunteering
Wokingham Young Carers provides weekly respite term time only and additional activities are offered during the holiday periods. To enable us to run these outings, we require volunteers. If you are able to provide time, skills or knowledge and are passionate about supporting young people to reach their full potential please complete this volunteer application form.

Useful Websites
Please visit the Berkshire Youth Hubs for useful website links.