Support for young carers
This guide provides information and resources specifically for young carers (aged 18 or under) living in Kingston Borough who care for someone with a disability, long-term illness, mental illness, or substance misuse issue.
Who is a young carer
You’re a young carer if you are 18 or under and you care for someone, usually a member of your family, who has a disability, long-term illness, a mental illness or misuses drugs or alcohol.
Accessing support and information in Kingston
We’ve partnered with Achieving for Children (AfC) who can offer you information and care support services in Kingston.
AfC can give you information about social activities and clubs, learning opportunities, planning your career, staying safe and much more.
You can contact AfC to learn more about their services on 020 8547 5008.
Kingston Carers' Network Young Carers' Project
We’ve set up a project specifically for young carers to get help.
If you’re aged 5 to 18, you can:
- get one-to-one consultations
- take part in group activities
- attend regular drop-in sessions
- meet other young carers
- access advocacy and family support
Contact the Young Carers Team for more information by phone on 020 3031 2754 or by email: youngcarers1@kingstoncarers.org.uk.
Kingston Carers' Network Family Support Project
This project offers tailored support to families where a young person experiences excessive or harmful caring responsibilities. It provides intensive one-to-one support and aims to improve young carers' long-term outcomes.
Contact the Family Support Team for more information by phone on 020 3031 2753 or by email: familysupport@kingstoncarers.org.uk.
Balancing school work with your caring responsibilities
You can receive various forms of support at school including emotional well-being support, health advice, and referrals to other agencies if needed. Visit the teacher at your school for more information.
Get help for the adult you care for
If you are concerned about your caring responsibilities, discuss the possibility of a needs assessment for the person you care for.
Adult social care services may be able to offer the adult you care for support in various areas, including personal care, childcare, and social activitiesIf the adult you care for already has a social worker, you can discuss your situation with them directly. Otherwise, contact adult social care for assistance.
Telephone: 0208 547 5005 Email: adults@kingston.gov.uk
Other organisations you can contact
You can get support from:
- Carers Trust is a network of local carers, you can find information, advice, and practical support for young carers
- the Children's Society provides advice, resources, and funding for projects specifically aimed at supporting young carers
- KIDS specialises in supporting young carers under 18 and offers regular clubs, advice, and information
- Action for Children can connect you with peers and provides opportunities for free participation in residential activity camps
- Barnardo's can help you access social activities, advice, and emotional support, while also assisting families in accessing social services support
Carers UK offers tailored guidance, resources, and specialist support for young carers.