All children deserve a childhood

Young people with caring responsibilities have all the challenges of being young, with all the responsibilities of being an adult, and they're often left to face these alone. That's a lot to deal with as a child.

Did you know that a young carer is someone under 18 who looks after a parent or another family member? They take on physical and emotional duties that adults usually handle. Children who are young carers miss out on all sorts of opportunities, from basic education, social and developmental activities and hanging out with friends. It can feel scary and isolating and sideline their whole childhood.

We aim to help as many young carers as we can

We have over 15 years experience of working with young carers, from as young as five, through their teenage years and right up until they become independent adults. We work across the whole of the Wigan and Leigh Borough and are a vibrant charity with a big heart.

Our support at Wigan and Leigh Carers Centre helps young carers come to terms with their parent's or other family members illness or condition. We teach them how to cope, and guide them to build positive relationships outside the family. Caring shouldn't hold them back. We help young carers plan for the future, by making sure they can access adult services when they're 18.

Breaks for young carers - We make sure young carers get regular breaks, and can join in fun activities with other young people. Events, outings and meet-ups are a chance to pause responsibilities and enjoy being a child for a few hours. This is really important to resilience and mental wellbeing.

We also offer practical and emotional support to ensure young carers enjoy and achieve, just like their peers. Our wrap-round service give young carers, with responsibilities beyond their years the opportunity to create happy memories and build brighter futures.

Making a Difference....what do families say?

Why are we fundraising?

Sadly, there is no statutory funding for respite for young carers. All respite is funded via small grants and donations and kindly supported by our dedicated team of volunteers.

What Does Your Donation Get?

£10 covers the food and activity for a 1-2-1 session.

£30 covers the sessional fee for a group leader.

£40 covers the costs of a trained Young Carers Youth Worker for a 1-2-1 support session.

£100 covers and activity and food for a group of high-need young carers.

£300 covers the typical costs per child for a 2 night residential.

£500 covers the typical costs of a Christmas Party for 2 of our primary school aged groups.

£600 covers costs, transport, and meals with an Activity Day at somewhere like Scotmans Flash.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read about Young Carers and our small Charity. We really do appreciate anything you can give - you are helping to make a difference to these young people's lives.