Support for young carers
Sheffield Young Carers supports young carers and young people affected by drug and/or alcohol problems in their family. Due to high demand, unfortunately we have a waiting list of around 8 months.
If you want to be referred to SYC for support, please ask a member of staff at your school or college or a professional like a GP or social worker to refer you. You can also complete our referral form yourself.
In the meantime, you’ll find lots of useful information below and on the rest of our website. You may also be able to apply for a £300 grant.
Your rights as a young carer
Every young carer is entitled to a Young Carers Assessment which is your way to tell an adult you trust about your caring at home. This will help you and the adult find ways to make your life and caring role easier.
Any worker you know can complete your assessment, for example your social worker, your MAST worker or someone from your school or college. The worker will ask questions about you, your family, the things you do as a carer, how you feel about being a carer and how it may be affecting your life.
The worker will then decide what help they can give you and what support other services can provide.
Self-care is vital
The young carers we support often find it very useful to work on their self-esteem and confidence and to find different ways to manage their feelings.
It is normal and okay to have lots of different feelings; everyone can feel overwhelmed by their feelings at times and caring in particular brings up such a range of emotions. Why not give this self-care worksheet a try and see if helps?
For some people confidence seems to come naturally, but for others it takes a bit of effort. Negative thoughts can also be difficult to manage if you have a lot on your mind. Use this worksheet to build a bank of your positive strengths and to boost your self-confidence.
Support in a crisis
Emergency? Phone 999 if you need urgent help due to a fire, crime or health problem.
For crime or nuisance behaviour that is not an emergency, phone 101.
To talk to someone about your problems, 24 hours a day, phone ChildLine on 0800 11 11 or visit www.childline.org.uk
If you’re thinking of running away, call Safe @ Last on 0800 335 7233
Phone Samaritans to talk to someone, 24 hours a day. Call: 116 123