Our Caring Counts programme explores what it means to be a young carer, focusing on health and wellbeing. In the half term holidays a group of ten fantastic young people met for the first time with one thing in common: they all care for their siblings.

The group gelled quickly and had lots of fun playing games, getting to know each other and enjoying a sunny walk which ended with ice cream! We then met every Tuesday; group activities and discussions enabled the young people to discuss their caring roles, share advice and offer support to one another.

The last session involved a trip to Funky Warehouse in Cheltenham. Despite the high temperatures everyone enjoyed a good bounce, became ninja warriors and finished with a yummy meal.

When reflecting on what they learnt from the course, participants commented ‘how other people cope with things’ ‘to look after yourself’ and ‘we all have something in common’.
When asked what they had enjoyed one comment in particular stood out: ‘seeing that I’m not alone’.

Our caring counts program runs throughout the year. It's an offer for all young carer in our service aged 11+. To find out more, email: Lucy@GlosYoungCarers.org.uk.