I hope that every young carer I meet knows they have someone in their corner who believes in them
How do we make sure young carers in North Tyneside are supported?
That’s the job of our Family Support Workers who play a vital role in identifying and helping young people with caring responsibilities.
Through assessment, information-gathering, and close collaboration with professionals and partner services, they make sure each family receives support tailored to their individual circumstances.
This includes creating an action plan with clear, targeted interventions to meet the needs of both the young carer and their family.
They work really closely with schools and community groups across North Tyneside, providing support where it is needed most.
Helen Chandler is one of our Family Support Workers at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre. Here is what she said about the job:
I have the privilege of supporting incredible children and young people who help care for someone, often balancing responsibilities at home alongside school, friendships, and simply growing up.
My role is all about making sure young carers feel seen, heard, and supported and finding ways to reduce their caring role.
Every young person’s situation is different so no two days are ever the same. I spend my time getting to know young carers and their families, offering emotional support, helping them access the right services, advocating on their behalf, and creating opportunities for them to take a break, build confidence, and enjoy being young.
I spend a lot of time in schools across North Tyneside carrying out 1-1 sessions with our young people to make sure they have a better understanding of why they are young carers.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing our young carers make a new friend at a group session, achieve a personal goal, or parents and carers simply smile after a difficult week, those moments remind me why my work matters.
I love my job because every day brings the chance to make a positive difference in someone’s life. Young carers show remarkable strength, kindness, and resilience so being able to celebrate their successes, support them through difficult times, and help them recognise their own potential is something I never take for granted.
I hope that every young carer and family I meet knows they have someone in their corner who believes in them.
I’m proud to be part of our team.
If you know a young person who needs support, get in touch.
0191 2496480