Young carers

A young carer is someone under 18 who provides care, assistance or support to a member of their family who is ill, disabled or misuses drugs or alcohol. The person receiving the care is often a parent but could be a brother or sister, grandparent or other relative.

Extra responsibilities may include:

• practical tasks, such as cooking, housework and shopping
• physical care, such as helping someone out of bed
• emotional support, such as talking to someone who is distressed
• personal care, such as helping someone dress
• managing the family budget and collecting prescriptions
• helping to give medicine
• helping someone communicate
• looking after brothers and sisters

As a young carer you are entitled to a free young carers assessment. This is regardless of who is being cared for, what type of care is provided or how often the care is provided.

We also provide support for young adult carers up to the age of 25 by working with partner organisations to support transition to adult services.

Young carers assessment

To get an assessment you will need to meet the definition of a young carer and have your parents' consent. You should also get an assessment if you are doing any age inappropriate care, or your caring responsibilities affect your:

• physical health
• education
• emotional wellbeing
• relationships with family and friends

A young carer's assessment is a chance for you to talk about your needs as a young carer and the ways in which you could receive support.

Most assessments in Bracknell Forest are completed by a professional you already know such as your Family Support Advisor in school, your social worker or an early help professional. We aim to assess your needs within 45 working days, usually as part of a single assessment.

How to get an assessment

You can contact our young carers service directly by:

• email: young.carers@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
• talking to your school, social carer or early help professional and they can refer you to our service

If you are a professional already working with the family or young carer and would like to register them, fill in the Young Carers assessment form below with the family and Young Carer and email to young.carers@bracknell-forest.gov.uk