Our conversations with young adult carers have stressed the importance of finding support and companionship with others in similar situations. Opening up to others, sharing how you are feeling and making connections are all things that young adult carers have told us really made a difference to them.
Below you will find information on the ways you can connect with other young adult carers and get involved with the services we provide.
To support young adult carers in fighting the isolation that often comes with their caring role, and to find the community and support they need, we are setting up peer support groups for young adult carers aged 18–25.
This is an exciting new development providing a chance to meet up with other young adult carers who care for a loved one to connect, share experiences, and get support. The aim is that you, as young adult carers, will decide where to meet and how the sessions run. Refreshments will be provided and travel reimbursed.
How to Join
Sign up for more information, or get in touch with Lisa Furnes, our Young Adult Carers Support Worker:
No one is better equipped to speak up for and shape the policies that affect carers than carers themselves. Our Carers Voice service aims to promote the views and experiences of carers in Bristol and South Gloucestershire and ensure that carers have a say in influencing the decisions that affect them.
If you look after an adult dependent, you can get involved by joining our Expert by Experience panel. We welcome any level of commitment that you can manage, and we invite you to participate online if you are unable to make meetings in person.
If you are especially keen to advocate on behalf of carers in the Bristol and South Gloucestershire area, and are able to handle a more regular and demanding commitment, you can volunteer as a Carer Representative.
To become a carer representative:
Please contact Susy Giullari, our Carers Policy, Engagement and Involvement Lead.
Email: susyg@carersbsg.org.uk
Tel: 07521 945 943
Find out more about how to get your voice heard
The discussions we’ve had with young adult carers also highlighted how helpful mentoring can be when dealing with the stresses and difficulties of caring responsibilities. If this is something you are interested in, the following organisations may be of help:
Babbassa is a nationwide charity that aims to eliminate inequalities experienced by young people. It offers guidance, skills development programmes and employment and education support.
Inspire Mentoring provides 1:1 mentoring for young people living in Bristol, aged 8–19. Its mentors provide support and guidance on a wide range of issues and work to encourage and inspire young people to unleash their full potential.
Rise Up provides career coaching and employment support for young people who may face barriers to career achievement. They run regular events, workshops and work with businesses and partner organisations to offer work placements.
