Salford young carers have been recognised with the first official day of celebration in their honour.
For the first time Salford City Council has officially made Tuesday 20 October the very first ‘Young Carers Day’ in a bid to recognise young people and the contribution they make to their families and communities.
Many young carers are under a lot of strain, juggling school work with personal life and often feel isolated.
It is thought that at any time more than 70 per cent are hidden, unrecognised and without support.
Young carers and their families visited Salford’s Ceremonial Mayor for tea and cakes before an official event at The Lowry theatre on Salford Quays.
The event saw the launch of a new awareness tool-kit for schools and celebrated four years of work between The Lowry and Salford Young Carers and Young Adult Carers Services.
Councillor John Merry, Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services, Learning and Skills at Salford City Council said: “These young carers are inspirational people and quite rightly deserve public recognition – they are a credit to their families.
“They are forced to grow up early and miss out on other opportunities that young people get.
“We now want to we help raise awareness of what they do and try and encourage other people who need vital support time come forward.”
For support and more information young people and their families can contact Salford Carers Centre on 0161 833 0217 or visit www.salfordyoungcarers.org
Main image: Ceremonial Mayor Cllr Peter Dobbs with visitors
