Referral

 

Connect With Us Online

Basingstoke & District Young Carers is pleased to welcome referrals through our streamlined online form. Our team is ready to assist you for guidance or further information or if you encounter any issues. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 01256 423824.

Before You Refer, Consider the Following:

Embracing a Whole Family Approach

Understanding a young carer’s needs requires a comprehensive view that encompasses the entire family’s circumstances and how these dynamics influence one another. The Whole Family Pathway, accessible at www.youngcarer.com, offers a valuable online resource guiding practitioners towards the support structures available for young carers and their families. By navigating this pathway, you can gain insights into the assessments and support frameworks designed to aid young carers, considering children’s cultural sensitivities and essential rights to a safe and secure childhood.

A young person may assume caregiving responsibilities for an adult or another child due to:

  • Physical disabilities or sensory impairments
  • Learning disabilities
  • Chronic illnesses
  • HIV/Aids
  • Mental health issues
  • Substance dependency

To understand the impact of the care recipient’s condition on the family better, consider asking:

  • Who else is involved in providing care at home?
  • How does the condition and care needs affect the family dynamics?
  • Is there a child or young person contributing to care?
  • What are the physical, emotional, or educational effects on them?
  • Are there specific supports that could assist the young carer directly?
  • Does the parent or guardian require additional support in their role?
  • What comprehensive support can be offered to enhance the family’s well-being?

Awareness and openness to receiving support can vary among families, with some hesitant to engage with external agencies or acknowledge the children’s caregiving roles due to fear or stigma.

Defining a Young Carer

A young carer is defined as “Children and young people under the age of 18 who provide regular and ongoing care and emotional support to a family member who is facing long-term health challenges, including illnesses, disabilities, or addiction.”

While it’s natural for children and young people to assist their parents, some may shoulder excessive responsibilities that adversely affect their well-being.

Identifying a Young Carer

Inappropriate caregiving levels can impact a child’s health, educational achievements, and future opportunities. Signs of strain include academic struggles, social isolation, conflicting needs leading to guilt or resentment, and emotional distress. Yet, with adequate support, young carers can develop remarkable independence, empathy, and life skills.

Caring Responsibilities May Include:

  • Household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and laundry
  • Personal and intimate care, including medication administration and mobility assistance.
  • Emotional support and childcare for younger siblings
  • Managing household affairs, such as bill payments and hospital visits

For More Information and Resources, Visit:

Ready to Make a Referral?

Click the link below to access our online referral form and take the first step in supporting a young carer.

Submit a Referral

Click below to download the Referral Form.