Young Carers – our Heroes at Home

A new campaign aimed at Norfolk’s young carers launches today. Led by Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership and supported by carers organisations Carers Matter Norfolk and Caring Together, Heroes at Home recognises the vital role young carers play in supporting their loved ones at home and highlights the range of support available to help them.

It is estimated that over 11,000 children and young people from as young as 5 years of age in Norfolk are carers, helping to look after or support a family member or friend who is ill, disabled or misuses drugs or alcohol. This figure is likely to be higher as many children and young people may not identify themselves as a carer but may still fulfil a regular caring role for a family member.

The effects of the coronavirus pandemic have seen increased pressure on young carers providing essential support to a family member in their household, with previous opportunities for a break from their responsibilities, such as meeting friends at school or through social groups currently not available.

Heroes at Home highlights that now more than ever we need to say thank you to these young carers, and signpost them to support that’s available via the Carers Matter Norfolk website and advice line.

In addition to support and advice for young carers and families, there is also a range of practical and virtual support available to young carers through partner organisations across the county. Caring Together also provide an opportunity for young carers to have their voices heard and help improve support for young carers through their Norfolk Young Carers Forum project.

For support and advice or a live chat online visit www.youngcarersmatternorfolk.org or
call the Carers Matter Norfolk Advice Line on 0800 083 1148.