The City of Wolverhampton Council's Carer Support Team is hosting the event for 18 to 25 year olds on Wednesday (17 March) at 5pm.
Young carers will be able to find out more about the support that is available to them, get help with job hunting, qualifications and courses and find out about upcoming social opportunities with other young people. They'll also be able to share their experiences and talk openly about their caring role. To join, use the meeting ID 957 4626 1797 and passcode gt6x7L. For more details, call 01902 553409 or email carer.support@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
Meanwhile, Tuesday (16 March) is Young Carers Action Day, an annual event led by the Carers Trust, which this year will highlight the incredible skills young people have developed through their caring role – like resilience, time management and empathy. It also calls for action to increase support for young people with caring responsibilities and to make sure they have every chance to go after their dreams.
Councillor John Reynolds, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "Hundreds of young people in Wolverhampton care for a relative, taking on practical or emotional responsibilities that many of us can only imagine.
"The stress and anxiety that this can cause can leave them feeling isolated, and many sadly miss out on their childhood or struggle at school, college or university because of the pressures they are facing.
"We know the coronavirus pandemic has taken an even bigger toll on their mental health and wellbeing so it's important that they are able to reach out for help whenever they need it to overcome the challenges they are facing."
The Carer Support Team offers a range of support for anyone who cares for a friend, relative or neighbour in Wolverhampton, ensuring they are supported in their caring role, have access to the services they need and are able to claim the benefits they are entitled to.
They provide practical information, guidance and advice on a range of matters including benefits and short breaks for carers, and offer a range of other services including carer assessments, the Carers Emergency Card and training in skills such as first aid.
For more information about the Carer Support Team, please call 01902 553409, visit Carers, email carer.support@wolverhampton.gov.uk or follow @WolvesCarers on Twitter.
