Sheffield Young Carers

Who we are

Sheffield Young Carers (SYC) raises awareness of and provides support to children and young people aged 8-25 who provide substantial unpaid care to a member of their family and/or are affected by familial substance misuse. The cared-for person may have a long-term illness, disability, mental health problems or substance misuse issues. SYC aims to reduce isolation and stigma; increase young people’s access to social, educational and career opportunities; and provide practical and emotional support. We offer one-to-one and group support; holiday activities and breaks; family support; and support through key transitions, e.g. primary to secondary school.

SYC works city-wide to ensure good quality support is available to young carers and young people affected by familial substance misuse across Sheffield, both on a strategic and operational level. We provide information, training and resources to young people and professionals in all fields and coordinate a schools network to support local schools to develop best practice for identifying and supporting young carers. We are also active members on a range of strategic boards and networks working to influence policy and practice in order to improve the lives of young carers city-wide.

Vision 

Working with young carers to make a difference for life 

Values 

Inclusion  

We welcome and involve everyone, and challenge discrimination, to improve the lives of all young carers 

Innovation 

We reflect and change to always do the best we can 

Inspiration  

We share our expertise and energy to inspire positive change 

Impact 

We see and nurture potential to make lasting change in young carers’ lives