Chichester Festival Theatre has launched a major new pilot project and fundraising appeal, Young Carers Connect, to help reconnect young carers in West Sussex with support, education and the arts.
There are an
estimated 6,000 young caregivers in West Sussex under the age of 18, including
some children as young as four years old. Young carers take on substantial
responsibilities, providing vital care and support to their loved ones when
they are themselves just children and teenagers.
44% of young
carers use online platforms to access help and support, and to keep connected
with others. Due to Covid-19 and the closures to schools, support centres and
libraries, many young carers have been unable to access the help and support
they rely on, simply because they do not own, or are unable to afford a
computer or internet access; the majority of young carers live in low-income households.
Even as schools reopen, many will remain confined to their homes as they
continue to care for vulnerable family members.
Donations of any size will be gratefully received. To read more about the project and to donate, please visit www.cft.org.uk/young-carers-connect