Support and activities for young carers

For young carers, things like going out for the day or getting enough sleep can be more of a challenge. They also might have to put their own needs aside while their sibling needs their parents more urgently. Children with siblings who have Additional Needs and Disabilities (AND) are often young carers without realising it, because they help look after their brother or sister more than would be expected from others their age.

Support groups and respite breaks

These groups in Surrey offer support, advice, breaks from caring and chances to make friends. We have listed some examples of these below.

  • Surrey Young Carers supports children and young people who have a caring responsibility for a family member or friend. Young carers can join one of their social groups to make friends, take part in fun activities and have some downtime. The youth workers can also give the young carers advice and help them talk to their teachers if they are finding things tough at school.
  • Mustard Seed Autism Trust is a charity in Hampshire that also provide support to Surrey families who live within a 10 mile radius of Farnborough. They run a sibling support group called 'The Funtastic Fun Club' which takes place once a month for children up to 11 years old who have a sibling with autism.
  • The Honeypot Children's charity offer respite breaks to young carers who are age 5-11. Children get to spend a weekend away at the Honeypot House, taking part in activities that they may not have had the opportunity to try before. Children must be referred by a professional, such as a doctor or social worker.
  • Positive Autism Support and Training (PAST) offer one-to-one support, small group training sessions and support to siblings of an autistic child.
  • Sidekick is an anonymous and confidential text service for young carers. Text 07888 868 059. It offers a chance for young carers to talk, have their questions answered or chat about worries and concerns. Young carers can text the service at any time and the team will find the answer and send a reply within 24 hours.
  • Action for Carers Surrey have a network for young adults carers who are 18-24 years old and have moved on from the support of young carers services.

Socialising and having fun

Find time for yourself. Enjoy doing something that takes you away from your role as a young carer for a few moments. Click on the below to find local groups running craft workshops, sports clubs and other social activities.

For more activities and events near you search our directory.

Run a local group?

If you run a group your would like us to include on this page please email localoffer@surreycc.gov.uk

Did you find this information helpful?

Rating Did you find the information helpful?