YOUNG adults caring for a relative or friend in Wiltshire can now access new groups, breaks and education and training guidance provided by Carer Support Wiltshire.

The charity has recruited two new workers who can provide dedicated help to 16 – 25 year olds who look after someone they know due to illness, disability or a specific need.

Amy Dyke, 19, cares for her mum who has Multiple Sclerosis. She said: “Carer Support Wiltshire has helped me to find all the help and assistance that I was entitled to.

“They have also helped me meet people in similar situations as me and make new friends.”

Carers like Miss Dyke have helped shape the support and services delivered across the county. She has been part of a steering group which decided what young adult carers need assistance with.

Derek Sowton, Young Adult Carers Support Worker at Carer Support Wiltshire, said: “There has always been help available for adult carers and very young carers, but our new service wants to make sure that the 16 – 25 age group doesn’t slip through the gap.

“We are currently arranging social gatherings and courses to help deal with some of the issues these young people are facing.”

The first course will take place on September 3 and will look at money management with guidance available from Wiltshire Citizen’s Advice.

There are also plans to set up a monthly Job Club for young adult carers, to help them overcome some of the employment difficulties they face because of their caring role.

To find out more, or to get in touch with the young adult carer support team, call 0800 181 4118 or email admin@carersinwiltshire.co.uk