Support That Listens: Standing With Young Carers in Highland

Empowering Young Carers at Every Stage – Ages 5 to 24

Our Young Carer team works to ensure Young Carers are recognised, valued, and supported. We help children and young people access the advice, resources, and services they need to manage their caring role while still enjoying their childhood and reaching their full potential. 

We deliver training to schools and professionals to improve early identification and support, and we campaign locally and nationally to champion Young Carers’ rights, working to improve access to financial help, education, and wellbeing services. 

Whether you’re a Young Carer or supporting one, we’re here to help you be heard, stay connected, and thrive. 

The Young Carers we support are aged 5 to 18, and we also work with Young Adult Carers aged 18 to 24.

Who Are Young Carers?
Young Carers are children and young people who provide emotional and practical support to someone living with a long-term health condition, disability, mental ill-health, or issues related to substance use. This is often a parent, sibling, or close family member they live with. Their caring role can include anything from helping with daily tasks to offering comfort and emotional support. 

How Our Team Can Support You
Our team supports over 1300 children and young adults across Highland. To reach everyone and support them effectively we use a traffic light system, a tiered approach to support. See below how this works and please reach out for more details or questions you may have around this.  

• RED: Focused support (4-6 weeks) covering introduction, caring role impact, community connections, Young Carer Statement, priority at activities, and more. 

• AMBER: Ongoing support without a set timeframe, including mental health support, engagement in school, and participation in projects like Life Skills, along with regular check-ins. 

• GREEN: For Young Carers who are self-sufficient, with mental health and school support in place, and access to other social groups and activities. They still have access to events, though priority goes to RED and AMBER levels. 

 

Young Carer Clubs & Activities – Take a Break, Just For You
Being a Young Carer can be a lot, that’s why our Young Carer Clubs are here to give you a proper break.  

These clubs are all about stepping away from your caring role for a little while and doing something just for you. Whether it’s relaxing with friends, getting creative, playing games, or just having a laugh, you’ll find a space to unwind and recharge. 

Come along and enjoy some time out, you deserve it. 

Find out more about our clubs and activities in your area here.