What is a young adult carer?
The ‘official’ definition of a young adult carer is someone aged between 18-24 who cares, unpaid, for someone who may be chronically ill, disabled, have a mental health condition or an addiction.
How we help young adult carers
Video produced by our YACs Taz Beattie and Helena Traill
We run a very friendly and supportive network who meet up, socialise and find out more about what’s available to young adults.
We also…
- connect with colleges, universities and work places speaking on behalf of our young adult carers
- help you understand the funding and services that are available to families
- arrange regular free meet ups, meals and trips out so our YACs can get to know other people who are in a similar situation
All our support and social events are free but you do need to register with us (also free!).
Different caring situations
Everyone’s caring situation is different. You may be part of a community which means caring can bring additional challenges. You might look after a parent, brother, sister, partner or grandparent. Young adults often care for more than one person in the family, in different ways.
Some of the more common situations are:
- caring for someone with mental health issues
- caring for someone with autism
- caring for someone with substance/alcohol problems
- caring for someone with dementia
Take a look at the pages above to find out about our particular support and information for carers looking after someone with these conditions.
Get in touch
For a general enquiry for the Young Adult Carer team, please text on 07723 486730 or email yac@actionforcarers.org.uk
To get in touch with one of the YAC team in your area, please email them:
Lisa Walmsley
covers Guildford and Waverley
lisa.walmsley@actionforcarers.org.uk
Mel Buxton
covers Mole Valley, Reigate & Banstead, and Tandridge
melanie.buxton@actionforcarers.org.uk
Ami Makhecha
covers Surrey Heath, Woking, Runnymede, Epsom & Ewell, Elmbridge and Spelthorne
ami.makhecha@actionforcarers.org.uk