YOUNG CARERS DAY OUT 2016

YOUNG CARERS DAY OUT 2016

  THE official definition of a Young Carer is a person under the age of 18 who provides or intends to provide care for another person.   These Young Carers are forced to grow up early and miss out on the same opportunities as other children in their age group, because they have responsibilities to care for family members who are disabled, or chronically ill, or for adults who are misusing alcohol or drugs.

  According to the most recent data, compared with ten years ago, the numbers of Young Carers have risen by 20%.  Some of these children are not only losing their childhoods they are also missing out on vital school and training, which will have a negative impact on the remainder of their lives.

  Thanks to the combined initiative of The Rotary Club of Oldham, and The Rotary Club of Chadderton and Failsworth, a group of 40 of these children enjoyed a day out to the 280 acre Drayton Manor Theme Park, Staffordshire.  It included transport, food and a small gift.  They were accompanied by a team of 7, responsible for their welfare. 

   At departure, the motor coach was delayed for 15 minutes because one of the children had encountered a problem at home.  A taxi and help were soon dispatched and the child was able to enjoy the trip. 

  Positive Steps in Oldham have contact with over 600 Young Carers, estimated to be around 50% of the whole.  Their aim is to provided help be making sure the children can have breaks from their responsibilities by giving them a platform to share their experiences and raise awareness of any issues they face.  This is achieved through weekly meetings at their Union Street Headquarters, and, if necessary by providing cover so that the child can attend.