To celebrate Young Carer’s Action Day (15.03.22), Dudley Young Carers (DYC) hosted a fantastic event at The Source youth centre in Kingswinford to showcase to young carers and their families from across Dudley how the team can support them.
Made possible with a generous donation from Carers Trust, the evening celebrated young carers (aged 5 -17) and young adult carers (aged 18 – 25) and the brilliant job these young people do caring for a loved one, whilst giving families the chance to relax and have fun together.
Jam packed with information and entertainment for the whole family, over a hundred people joined in the celebrations, with inflatables, face painting, a tombola, a drama session from Open Stage Drama Group, karaoke, plus a whole host of other activities.
And the local Rapid Relief Team joined us to provide a BBQ and refreshments, and West Midlands Ice Cream provided some sweet treats for all!
Cllr Kerry Lewis who attended the event said, “A fantastic evening celebrating young carers in Dudley, which was enjoyed by all! When speaking with families, they expressed to me their appreciation towards Tracey Dalloway, Young Carer Adviser, and the DYC team and how they have supported their child and family. DYC and their volunteers are a dedicated team who play a vital role supporting young carers across Dudley borough. I would personally like to thank you all for your hard work and dedication.”
Jennifer Douglas, Dudley Carers Lead said, “Young Carers Action Day is a great opportunity to put the spotlight on young carers, the challenges they face and the support they need. Unfortunately, too many young carers and young adult carers are still struggling to access the right support. Caring can have a real impact on children’s health and wellbeing and today is a chance for organisations such as ours to remind young carers that we are here for them.”
Young carer Josh, aged 12, from Halesowen, helps to care for his younger brother Ollie who is autistic. His mum Sarah said, ‘Josh is registered as a young carer. He comes to the youth club ran by Dudley Young Carers so he can have some much needed time to himself and have fun, whilst taking a break from his caring duties. He loves it!’
The Dudley Young Carers team is part of the Dudley Carers Wellbeing Service at Crossroads Caring for Carers, who provide an integrated wellbeing service for carers of all ages throughout the Dudley borough, on behalf of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council.
The teams provide free, confidential one-to-one support with a dedicated worker, education and general wellbeing support, youth clubs, activities in the school holidays and much more, to help young carers and young adult carers from Dudley access the support they need, take a break from their caring role and live their own lives healthily.
To find out more about Dudley Carers Wellbeing Service or make a referral call 01384 886 429.
