Flintshire County Council signs up to Young Carers Covenant

Flintshire County Council has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting young carers by signing the Young Carers Covenant.

The UK-wide pledge aims to improve the lives, wellbeing and future opportunities of young carers and young adult carers up to the age of 25.

Developed by Carers Trust and the Young Carers Alliance, the Covenant sets out ten key outcomes identified by young carers themselves as being essential to improving their lives and ensuring they have the same opportunities as their peers.

Around 800 identified young carers are currently supported in Flintshire, with some taking on caring responsibilities from as young as four years old.

Young carers provide practical, physical and emotional support to parents, siblings and other family members living with illness, disability or mental health challenges.

The decision to sign the covenant was made unanimously by councillors after hearing the moving firsthand accounts of three young carers. They spoke about the support they provide to parents and siblings, and the challenges they face in balancing their caring responsibilities with school and everyday life.

They also shared the positive difference that Flintshire’s young carers service, provided by NEWCIS Young Carers, has made to their lives.

Councillor Christine Jones, Cabinet Member for Social Services and Wellbeing, said:

“Young carers make an invaluable contribution to their families and communities, often taking on responsibilities far beyond their years.

“Hearing directly from the young carers was a humbling and powerful reminder about the impact that caring responsibilities can have, and why we must ensure that our signing of the Covenant is much more than just a symbolic gesture.

“Their testimonies highlighted the value of ensuring young carers are identified early and have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

“We are committing to listening to their voices and continuing to work with partners like NEWCIS Young Carers to make sure this happens.”

By signing the Covenant, the Council joins other organisations across the UK in a shared commitment to improving outcomes for young carers and young adult carers in areas including health, wellbeing, education and employment.