Wednesday 16th March is Young Carers Action Day, organised by Carers Trust to raise awareness of young carers and the incredible contribution they make to their families and local communities.
Why are we supporting Young Carers Action Day?
Many life limited and life threatened children we care for have siblings who are also amazing carers. That’s why we have a dedicated Sibling Team who give specialist support to these siblings, as well as those who are bereaved.
Some children may have had to grow up early and become self-sufficient or independent from a young age. Their brother or sister’s complex care needs may demand a lot of their mum or dad’s attention and they may become young carers themselves.
A report by Sibs has shown that throughout the pandemic, 81% of parents with a disabled child said their sibling child’s mental health had worsened. While 40% of young siblings were feeling isolated and missing support from family and friends.
“Zach worries about Luca. Talking to other children in the same boat really helps. Talking to someone else is easier for him, he opens up and shares his emotions so much more than he does with us.”
– Faye, Luca and Zach’s mum
Sibling Support at Acorns
Each of our hospices has a dedicated Sibling Support Worker, who works tirelessly to get to know each child and young person. They tailor support to meet the child’s individual needs including pivoting to virtual support during the pandemic.
Acorns Sibling Support Workers are working with around 240 siblings across our three hospices. They provide expert psychosocial support on a 121 basis. We also provide sibling support groups designed to be both therapeutic and fun and a place where siblings can meet others in similar situations.
Acorns Sibling Worker Sarah explains more: “One of the main things that siblings get from the groups is the feeling that they’re not alone. They’re not the only one who is woken up in the middle of the night by an ambulance. They’re not the only one who listens out for coughs or beeping machines. They’re not the only one who worries if their mum and dad are OK and they’re not the only one who has suffered the loss of a brother or sister.”
How you can help support siblings
We are here for siblings and young carers along every step of their journey, supporting them to have bright futures. Will you help us to support children with a sibling who is life limited or life threatened? £2,200 could fund the role of a Sibling Support Worker for a month. Get in touch with our partnerships team to learn more about how your business could help. Or, visit our fundraising pages to see how you can get involved.
