Young carer: “Barnardo’s changed my life”

Ms Champion met Regan (17) and 14-year-olds Chelsea and Dylan during a visit to the children’s charity in Rotherham.

The young people talked of the support they receive and their involvement in the Young Carers’ Council.

They told Ms Champion of the benefits of being able to take a break from their caring roles and spend time with other young people in similar circumstances at Barnardo’s groups and outings.

College student Regan said: “I had to grow up a lot quicker than most people I know because I needed to care for my mum after an accident. 

“I was an angry person until I came to Barnardo’s. 

“They changed my life. I feel like there’s someone to listen to me and I'm a lot more confident now and have a lot to look forward to.”

Barnardo’s Young Carers’ service in Rotherham supports young people who care for someone in their family. 

Manager Kevin Hynes said: “Our young carers are resilient young people who we are incredibly proud to work with.

“By making their voice heard today, they will help to shape understanding for other young carers across the country.

“We welcomed the opportunity for our young people to meet with Sarah and discuss first hand the challenges and issues they face on a daily basis.”

Ms Champion added: “It’s been wonderful to meet with the young people and learn about their lives and the challenges they face. 

“What has really hit me is the sense of isolation that some young people feel when they are carers and just how vital Barnardo’s is in supporting them and helping them to develop as young people in their own right.

“I am very impressed with the Barnardo’s service here in Rotherham and the work that’s being done to support these impressive young people.”

The charity helped 1,438 young carers across the UK in 2016/17 and is campaigning for more support to be included in the Government’s forthcoming Carers Action Plan.