A Young Carer Worker supports children and young people who have a significant caring role for a family member with physical or mental health needs, disability, or substance misuse issues. The role involves identifying young carers, assessing their needs, and providing tailored support to help them balance their caring responsibilities with education, social life, and personal development.
Build trusting relationships with young carers is key to this role through regular individual sessions. Offer emotional support, help them explore their feelings, and develop coping strategies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify and engage with young carers through schools, community services, and referrals.
- Conduct assessments to understand the impact of caring responsibilities.
- Provide emotional support, advocacy, and practical advice, to help reduce the caring role if possible.
- Organise group activities, peer support sessions, and respite opportunities.
- Liaise with schools and health professionals to ensure coordinated support.
- Promote awareness of young carers’ needs within the community and professional networks.
- Transition Support: Provide guidance during key life transitions (e.g., moving schools, starting college, entering employment) to ensure continuity of support and reduce anxiety.
Skills & Qualities:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Empathy and understanding of young people’s challenges.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures.
- Experience in youth work, social care, or education is beneficial.
This is a part time role at 29.6 hours per week.
This post involves working with children and/or vulnerable adults and/or having access to significant information about them. It will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. See our policy on the employment of ex-offenders.
See our policy on safeguarding children and young people.
See our adult safeguarding policy.
