Cheshire Young Carers Awarded New Contract to Support Young Carers Across Cheshire West and Chester

Cheshire Young Carers has been awarded a new contract to continue delivering vital support services for young carers across Cheshire West and Chester until June 2028.

The new contract, which runs from 1st July 2026 to 30th June 2028, will ensure young carers continue to receive specialist support, opportunities for respite and access to activities that help improve wellbeing and life chances.

The service will provide:

• Dedicated support for young carers who are open to social care
• A Young Carer Breaks Service for young carers across the borough who need additional support and opportunities for a break from caring responsibilities

Young carers are children and young people who provide care, assistance or emotional support to a family member who is ill, disabled, experiencing mental health difficulties or affected by substance misuse.

The council is encouraging families, schools, health professionals and community organisations to help identify young carers and ensure they can access support as early as possible.

Referrals can be made directly to Cheshire Young Carers by parents, family members, schools, GPs and young people themselves.

Over the last year, Cheshire Young Carers has worked with young people, schools and partners to introduce a range of initiatives designed to improve awareness and support.

These include:

• The launch of a Young Carers Forum page on Live Well, created by young carers themselves
• The successful Young Carers in Schools Award scheme, with more than 60 schools achieving Bronze, Silver or Gold recognition
• A Young Leaders Programme helping young carers aged 16+ develop volunteering, leadership and life skills
• The introduction of Young Carers Champions in schools, providing trained and identifiable staff contacts
• A new Young Carers Ambassador programme launching in September 2026, enabling young people to support and advocate for their peers

Councillor Adam Langan, Cabinet Member for children, young people and families at Cheshire West and Chester Council said:

“These developments reflect a growing commitment across Cheshire West and Chester to recognising the contribution of young carers and ensuring they receive the support they need to enjoy positive childhoods and achieve their full potential.”

Anyone who believes a child or young person may be carrying out caring responsibilities is encouraged to contact Cheshire Young Carers for advice and support or speak to their school, GP or local support service.

For more information about support for young carers and carers of all ages, visit the Cheshire West and Chester Council website and Live Well Cheshire West.