Chief Executive, Claire Easton

At North Tyneside Carers’ Centre we provide support to more than 500 young carers aged from five years old to 18.

They deal with a range of caring responsibilities and family situations and we know that when they walk through our door, they can often be bringing the weight of that part of their lives with them. Our job is to provide both a space for them to be heard and supported, and some fun and laughter to remind them they are still young people.

Not a day goes by that I am not amazed by the strength and resilience of our young carers and how they manage to juggle so much from such a young age.

That’s why we make a huge effort at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre to create a range of activities and group sessions that bring people together, teach new skills and result in lots of smiling, happy faces. Recently our young adult carers spent a session making their favourite hot drinks (they were better than the popular high street chains!). We also invited Libby, one of our young carers who now attends university, to talk to the group about how she is finding life away from home.

One of our young carers said of North Tyneside Carers’ Centre: “I find it very calming and a nice place to come to. A place where I can express my feelings at once and I can talk about everything and find ways to cope with it.”

These experiences build their confidence and give young people a place to be themselves, even for a couple of hours.

Change the lives of young carers

I believe everyone in society has a role to play in supporting young people, especially those with caring responsibilities. If you are wondering how you could help – whether you are a local resident or a business – here are some ways you could make a big difference to these amazing lives.

1. Support carer charities

Each year we at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre work hard to raise funds to continue providing vital support to carers in the borough. Even a small amount will help us to change the lives of young carers. It could help pay for a break or activity that would make all the difference to a young person. If you would like to make a donation go to: www.justgiving.com/northtyneside-carerscentre

2. Volunteer

Our amazing team of volunteers are a huge asset to the Carers’ Centre and allow us to do even more for the carers we work with. Some of the roles our volunteers undertake include: helping with young carer activities, organising peer support groups, managing our IT system, admin support and also helping raise awareness. The best thing about volunteering is that it benefits both sides. Volunteers find they get a sense of purpose, gain self confidence, learn new skills, meet new people and all while giving back to our great community.

If you are interested in volunteering with us, feel free to call 0191 2496480 or email us at enquiries@ntcarers.co.uk

3 Fundraising

Are you a business owner around the North Tyneside area looking for a way to give back? Are you a community group exploring options for helping a local charity? Or are you organising an event or taking part in a sponsored activity? We would love to work with you on some fundraising ideas. Every pound raised for the Carers’ Centre can make a massive difference. If you would like to know more, get in touch at enquiries@ntcarers.co.uk

4. Helping with activities

If you are a local business that could provide a space or opportunity for our young carers to try something new, or learn a skill – get in touch. Our Young Carers Team are always looking for new things to do and we would love to work with you.

Get in touch

As Chief Executive, I will do everything I can to make sure we empower and support young carers to pursue their aspirations, maintain their wellbeing and have a life outside of caring. If you would like to help us with our plan – please do get in touch.

For more information about our plan for the next five years, read our corporate strategy here.