A new online resource offers information and advice to young carers who know or are living with someone who drinks or takes drugs.
A young carer is a child or young person who cares, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is mentally or physically ill, disabled, or misuses drugs or alcohol. There are thought to be around 6,000 young carers in Lincolnshire who provide care and support to their loved ones.
5 to 11 June is Carers Week, and the council is taking the opportunity to remind Lincolnshire’s young carers that they are not alone and support is available. This includes a new resource for those supporting someone dealing with substance misuse, which can be found online. This outlines the signs that someone might need help and who to contact for support.
Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services, said: “Carers Week is an opportunity for us to let these remarkable young people know how much we appreciate their efforts. It can be particularly challenging for them to juggle their caring duties with school, but there is support available. We can offer you and your family an opportunity to talk about your caring role and any worries you have, and help you understand you are not alone by giving you a chance to meet other young carers.
“The new resource on dealing with substance misuse has been developed in partnership with a range of local organisations and lets young carers know about the support that’s available. I’d particularly like to thank the young carers who worked with us on developing this by offering their feedback. I’m sure it will be of great benefit to families.”
For further information or support, email youngcarers@lincolnshire.gov.uk or call 01522 553275.