A new youth club specifically for youngsters who care for a loved one has opened in Dudley.
The Dudley Young Carers team, part of the Dudley Carers Wellbeing Service recently launched the youth club to give young carers aged between 5 – 18 years old the opportunity to take a well-deserved break from their caring role.
Transport is provided to the youth club which takes place every other week. It offers young carers the chance to take part in arts and crafts, healthy meal preparation, sports and games and is a place to chill out and chat to others in a similar situation, all within a safe and positive environment. The young people also have access to Young Carer Advisers for free, confidential support and advice.
Graham Evans, Dudley Carers Lead, said “We are delighted to open our new youth club as Covid-19 restrictions ease. Many of the young people who care for a family member with a disability or long-term illness have had additional pressures put on them during the pandemic, so the youth club is a chance for them to not only get the information and advice they need from the Dudley Young Carers team, but also have fun whilst learning to make healthy life choices through a range of activities.”
13-year-old Amela who attends the youth club said, “I look forward to coming to youth club. Its time when I can relax and mix with others with similar backgrounds to me and make new friends.”
Josh, 10, said, “Its very nice here. I can play inside on the PlayStation or outside, I can have a kickabout and get some fresh air. I care for my mum and my brother – a break is good.”
The Dudley Young Carers team provide one-to-one support with a dedicated worker, school support, including help with transitions to college or university, fun activities in the school holidays and much more.
Dudley Young Carers is part of the Dudley Carers Wellbeing Service who provide a wellbeing service for carers of all ages throughout the Dudley borough, on behalf of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council. Visit our Dudley Carers Wellbeing Service pages or call 01384 886 429.
