On Young Carers Action Day (Wednesday 11 March) we shone a light on all the young people who care for someone close to them, while raising awareness of the support available to them from the council and partners.
Across the Royal Borough of Greenwich, approximately 3,000 young carers – children and young people under 18 – look after a family member or friend due to illness, disability or mental health challenges. This number could be higher, as many young people with caring roles may not see themselves as carers and may be missing out on support that could ease their responsibilities and improve their wellbeing.
Young carers often juggle responsibilities such as emotional support, personal care, household tasks, and managing finances, all while navigating their education and personal development.
Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Young Carers Action Day recognises the vital role young carers play in our communities. This year's theme ‘Fair Future for Young Carers’ is a call to ensure every young carer has the same chances to learn and grow as their peers. To do this, it’s essential they know their rights and get the help they need.
“We’re highlighting the support young carers need to reach their potential, from recognition in school and access to training and employment, to breaks, wellbeing support and opportunities offering the space for them to enjoy their childhoods and build a bright future.
"Caring is an incredibly challenging role for young people to take on. I encourage young carers and their families to speak to our Families Information Service for help and advice.":
Our commissioned providers who provide support services for young carers in Greenwich, tell us more about the importance of providing a safe space for these young people.
“The support groups in schools provide a consistent, safe space where young carers feel recognised and able to share their struggles and frustrations. This has contributed to noticeable improvements in behaviour, self‑esteem, and attendance for pupils.
“A young carer with ADHD stated that she struggled to maintain friendships and that the group felt like a friendship group, and she felt she would be able to build long-lasting friendships in it. She said: “I like having some time out of class, where we receive more personalised attention…”.
“The activities during the support groups help young carers build confidence and feel capable and valued within the group. Schools have also shared positive feedback, noting “how willing the Greenwich Young Carers team is to adapt to our evolving needs and challenges".”
Support for young carers
If you need help now or would like to know what support you can get, contact the Families Information Service by:
- phoning 020 8921 6921
- emailing FIS@royalgreenwich.gov.uk
Find out more about support for young carers
Children and Young People Who Care Network
If you look after someone, you can join the Children and Young People Who Care Network to:
- get involved in support in Royal Greenwich
- hear about things that may affect you, your family or those you care for
If you are under 16, we will phone you first to talk to you about the network.
Find out more about the Children and Young People Who Care Network
Getting an assessment
Young carers have the right to an assessment to understand their needs and the support they may require. These assessments can be accessed through Children’s Services and can be used to identify what support will be required when they turn 18 and transition into adult services as young adult carers.
Young Carers can access an assessment by:
Phoning: 020 8921 3172
Emailing: mash-referrals@royalgreenwich.gov.uk
For professionals working with young carers
We all have a part to play in ensuring young carers have the right support to reach their full potential. This starts with the early identification of young carers. We encourage professionals from across the support system for children and families to use our Young Carers Identification Tool to quickly and sensitively identify children and young people with caring responsibilities.