Young carers are children under 18 who live with a family member with a long-term health condition, who need their care. The person receiving the care is often a parent, but can also be a sibling, grandparent or other relative who is disabled, has some chronic illness, mental health difficulties or substance misuse addictions. Young carers are often forced to take on a very adult level of responsibility at a very early age.
Being a young carer, it might be difficult sometimes for you to cope and you might not know where to turn to for help. If you have money worries, there are organisations that can give you advice about the benefits available to help your family. You can also get help with caring for your relative inside and outside the home.
To request an assessment of your care needs online email: childrenssocialcare@hounslow.gov.uk
Alternatively if you don’t have access to email contact us for confidential advice on: 020 8583 6672 or 6673.
Why have an assessment?
There may be services we can provide that give you short breaks from caring. You will need to have an assessment to see if you qualify and an assessment also helps us to understand your needs as a carer and provide better services for the future.
How do I know if I'm entitled to an assessment?
If you provide or intend to provide care regularly, you are entitled to an assessment. If the person you care for refuses an assessment for him or herself, you are still entitled to an assessment of your needs.
Footprints - young carers' project
Footprints is our young carers' project which provides fun social activities, drop-in sessions, information and support, support in schools as well as one-to-one support. It also offers a place to meet up and get a break from the stresses at home.
For more information on Footprints, email: youngcarers@hounslow.gov.uk or if you don’t have access to email: 07508 000 152.
Footprints is based at the Southville Centre, Southville Road, Bedfont, TW14 8AP.