Hammersmith & Fulham's Young Carers service is bigger and better than ever, and it's all thanks to the council's Early Help team.
The free service is a youth group, open to any resident aged 5 to 18 who provides care and support to a family member, that meets every three weeks.
"Everything we do is thought up and planned with the help our young carers," explained Charmaine Campbell, Early Help manager.
"Everyone has a chance to suggest trips and activities they'd like, which means the group is 100% theirs to enjoy as they want."
Since starting in 2023, the group has grown to more than 100 members – with one group meeting in the south of the borough in Fulham and the north group in White City.
More fun ahead
"This autumn the young carers have the opportunity to participate in a drama workshop and visit Clip 'n Climb. Towards the end of the year, we will have our annual Christmas party and trip to the theatre," said Charmaine.
"The group offers a space for the children and young people to enjoy time away from their caring responsibilities and meet others with similar experiences."
Hear from our young carers here.
Summer fun
Over the summer the club hosted six weeks of free fun, with trips to Brighton, London Zoo, Kew Gardens, London Aquarium, a tour round Chelsea FC's stadium, and to a pottery workshop. In June some of our Young Carers also attended the Young Carers Festival where they rock climbed, kayaked and camped.
Cllr Alex Sanderson, Deputy Leader of H&F, said:
Our Young Carers service offers local children and teenagers a break to enjoy fun new childhood experiences they might otherwise not have been able to try. It's been amazing to hear about everything they've done this past year. If you know a young carer, please help them get involved so that they can join in all the fun that's too come."
Get involved
If you're a young carer, or know one who'd like to get involved, please call our Children's Services team on: 020 8753 6600.
Or visit our Young Carers webpage to find out more.
