What we do

Exploration:

Discovering Together: Our Young Carers Exploration Journey

All new young carers are invited to our Young Carers Exploration Programme (Getting to Know Me). This 3-week programme introduces the young carers to the team and enables them to meet new friends in a smaller setting. 

During this journey, we delve into what it means to be a young carer, examining their pivotal role within their families and the broader impact of their caring responsibilities. To support their journey, we equip them with various tools and well-being kits designed to bolster their resilience and mental health. This programme is more than just an introduction; it’s a foundation for building self-esteem and confidence and equipping our young carers with skills that will serve them long into the future.

Sessions are held on a Thursday evening bi-weekly on an invite-only basis, with the programme for 3 sessions.

Upon completing this Exploration Programme, participants gain access to various respite activities for further support and enjoyment.

Interested families or professionals can refer a young carer to our programme through our online referral system. Click here to start the referral process.

Respite Activities:

Taking a Breather: Respite Opportunities for Young Carers

At Basingstoke & District Young Carers, we understand the importance of stepping back and taking a well-deserved break. Our respite sessions are designed to offer young carers a temporary escape from their day-to-day responsibilities.

Respite support youth clubs are scheduled as follows:

  • Bi-weekly on Thursdays: For young carers in Years 9, 10, 11, and college attendees from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  • Bi-weekly on Thursdays: For young carers in Years 4, 5, and 6 from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm and those in Years 7 and 8 from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
  • Dates will be communicated through our Facebook page.

Location: he Warren, on Long Cross Lane, Basingstoke RG22 4XF

To access our respite activities, a referral is required. A family member or a professional can do this. For online referrals, please click here.

Family Support:

Supporting the Whole Family: A Comprehensive Approach

Our philosophy centres on helping the young carer and the entire family unit. Understanding that practical support extends beyond the individual, we initiate our process with a comprehensive assessment through a home visit or a phone consultation. This allows us to gauge the level of support for the family.

Following this assessment, we collaborate closely with the family to develop a tailored action plan. This plan ensures that a wide range of support options are considered and implemented to provide a support system for everyone involved. Our goal is to ensure that the young carers and the adult family members, including those in the extended family, have the resources and support they need to thrive together as a unit.