Supporting the Mental Health of Young Carers, with Coleg Sir Gâr

Being a student brings a host of challenges—financial pressures, moving away from home, managing relationships, and the demands of studying and exams. However, for young carers, these challenges are amplified by the added responsibility of caring for a loved one. Unlike their peers, young carers often have to leave lectures early or spend their days worrying about the person they care for, adding an extra layer of stress to an already demanding life.

Research shows that young carers are more likely to achieve lower grades than their abilities would predict, simply due to the pressures of their caring role. In Wales, statistics confirm that this constant strain takes a toll on their mental health and well-being, with many young carers acknowledging that the burden negatively affects their emotional resilience and ability to focus on their studies.

This is where Carmarthenshire Crossroads Young Carers (CCYC) plays a vital role. The service works closely with schools and colleges to identify young carers early, ensuring they receive the tailored support they need to thrive both academically and personally. A key part of this is our collaboration with the wellbeing team at Coleg Sir Gâr. Together, we ensure that young carers are identified at the earliest opportunity, and we work to provide robust, ongoing support tailored to their individual needs.

CCYC’s dedicated key workers offer one-to-one support, providing a safe space for young carers to talk about their struggles and guiding them in accessing other essential services that can ease their load. Additionally, our group sessions give young carers the chance to connect with peers who share similar experiences, allowing them to discuss their caring roles and unwind from the daily pressures they face. We also organise activities and overnight stays, giving them the rare opportunity to step away from their responsibilities and simply enjoy being young.

As part of our commitment to supporting young carers, we were proud to participate in the Coleg Sir Gâr event on 10th October, celebrating World Mental Health Day. Alongside other organisations, we were there to show young people that we are present when they need us, offering the support they require to thrive both in their caring roles and in their personal lives.

The services provided by CCYC are crucial for young carers in Carmarthenshire. Together with the wellbeing team at Coleg Sir Gâr, we offer a lifeline to those balancing education with the heavy weight of caring, ensuring they are not only seen and supported but also given the opportunity to succeed—both in the classroom and beyond.

By offering this essential support, CCYC is helping to uplift a generation of young carers who deserve not only recognition for their dedication but also the chance to reach their full potential.