Sheffield Young Carers Project

Sheffield Young Carers Project is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting young carers and young people affected by drug and alcohol issues within their families. Registered under charity number 1140105, the organisation provides a range of services aimed at improving the emotional, mental, and social wellbeing of young carers in Sheffield.

Mission and Services

The charity focuses on helping young carers—children and young people who provide care for family members—by offering emotional and practical support. Its services include one-to-one support, group work, health clinics, information and advice, and activities designed to give young carers a break from their caregiving responsibilities. The organisation also addresses mental and sexual health needs for young people aged 13-25, offering dedicated support based at Star House[2][3].

Activities and Support

Sheffield Young Carers runs weekly support groups where young carers can meet peers, share experiences, and participate in fun and confidence-building activities. During school holidays, the organisation arranges day trips and regular social get-togethers, providing young carers with opportunities to relax and enjoy time away from their care duties. These activities have shown positive impact on young carers’ mental wellbeing, relationships, and educational performance[5].

Impact and Outcomes

Annual evaluations indicate that Sheffield Young Carers supports approximately 200 young carers aged between 8 and 25 years old. In the 2020-2021 reporting period:

• 79% of young carers reported feeling happier and more relaxed after joining the project.

• 78% achieved personal goals they had set at the start of their involvement.

• 66% gained a better understanding of the illnesses or conditions affecting their families[5].

The project has been credited with reducing anxiety, loneliness, and thoughts of self-harm among young carers. It often bridges service gaps that statutory providers find challenging to address effectively.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Sheffield Young Carers works in partnership with over 20 statutory services in Sheffield to enhance support for young carers and their families. These partnerships include Multi-Agency Support Teams, Community Youth Teams, the Youth Justice Service, and health providers such as Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. The organisation also collaborates with more than 90 educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, to improve the identification and support for young carers within these settings[4][5].

Recognition

The charity actively participates in public awareness events, such as Young Carers Action Day, highlighting the significant sacrifices made by young carers. It receives support from local figures and works continually to influence positive change for young carers across the region[2].

Sheffield Young Carers Project exemplifies a dedicated community organisation addressing the complex needs of young carers through comprehensive support, advocacy, and collaboration with statutory and educational bodies in Sheffield.

[1] https://www.scie.org.uk/providing-care/young-carers-breaks/practice-examples/ [2] https://www.sheffieldyoungcarers.org.uk [3] https://www.sheffieldyoungcarers.org.uk/support-for-young-people [4] https://www.learnsheffield.co.uk/Projects/Young-Carers-Project [5] https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/insights/differences-we-make/difference-we-make/impact-case-studies/sheffield-young-carers