Barnardo's Help Plymouth Young Carers

From April 1st children's charity Barnardo's is offering a helping hand to some of Plymouth's most vulnerable families.

Young carers sometimes struggle to look after sick or disabled parents, taking responsibility for cooking, cleaning and shopping together with providing personal care.

Barnardo's staff will work with local schools to ensure that their education does not suffer, as well as providing breaks where they can spend time with other young carers and share their experiences.

Tara's Story: Watch HERE

Adam's story: Watch HERE

The charity has secured a three-year £299,000 contract to provide the service on behalf of Plymouth City Council from April 1st, after a competitive tendering exercise. Staff from the services previous provider have already transferred to Barnardo's employment and are based at City Business Park in Stoke, Plymouth.

LISTEN HERE: Children's services manager Nigel Cox explains the aims of the service and how they will help the 840 child carers in the city.

The charity is keen to hear from potential volunteers willing to spare a few hours a week to offer additional support.

For further information, call 01752 564572 or B.Y.C.S.@barnardos.org.uk Barnardo's South West is also responsible for Plymouth BASE (Barnardo's Against Sexual Exploitation) and PIVAS (Plymouth Independent Visitor & Advocacy Service).

For more information visit www.barnardos.org.uk