The Children’s Society is urging forces families to help identify young carers so they can benefit from a scheme that offers a chance to benefit from improved support.
Nexus, launched earlier this year, encourages them to share their stories, connect with others, and take part in fun activities to boost their confidence. It provides residential sessions and the opportunity to produce videos, podcasts, and magazines about their experiences.
A pilot has started in Oxfordshire but the programme will extend to Wiltshire, Hampshire, Yorkshire and further around England.
Service Manager Linda Littler said: “Nexus gives us an incredible opportunity to reach young individuals and learn about their lives and the challenges they face as young carers with families in the armed forces.
“We need more armed forces families to help us identify young carers in their community. We want these young people to benefit from our support as they navigate the complexities of caring and growing up in the armed forces community.”
The three-year programme aims to improve help for all young carers by working with 35 of them aged 8-18 in military families. It is funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
Youth Participation worker Nicole Clay-Noonan stressed the significance of a Youth Voice Group within the project.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for them to build a community where they can thrive, share their journey, and let people know who they are in, and outside of, their caring role and responsibilities.”
You can read more at childrenssociety.org.uk/nexus