County's young carers urged to have their say

Leicestershire County Council wants to hear from young people age 11-19 years old that either care for a parent or another family member.

The feedback will be used to improve the support and advice available from schools, GPs, councils and others organisations, and to gain a more comprehensive picture of the number of young carers across the county.

Councillor Ivan Ould, cabinet member for children and families, said: “Young carers need support and we want to ensure that they receive the right help in the right way.

“Schools, GPs and other organisations provide a range of support and we’ll use the feedback to tailor what’s available, and shape council-run services such as respite groups.

”I’d encourage all young carers to take the time to complete this important survey.”

Support currently available includes advice and assistance provided by young carers’ champions, who are based in some schools and colleges. School nurses can also advice young people where to find help outside school, answer any questions and also check that the carer is coping, as often it can put a strain on school work, mentality and social life.

If you are a young carer or know of someone who is, please fill in the survey by visiting www.leicestershire.gov.uk/young-carers-survey-2016

The survey will be running from now until the end of November 2016.