Sophie is studying at Bristol UWE. Now 20, she has been her mum’s carer since she was 14 years old. Sophie had to leave university in her first year to look after her mum, but when she returned, the stress of combining her caring role with studying, a part time job and cooking and cleaning the house soon became too much.
When we first met Sophie, she was at crisis point and suffering from severe anxiety and depression. Young Adult Carer Support Worker, Andrea provided Sophie with a listening ear and the support she needed. A carers assessment meant Sophie was able to access help from Wiltshire Council who agreed to pay for a cleaner to come in once a week. She has also been awarded a bursary from university which means she doesn’t have to work during term, freeing up more time for studying.
Once Sophie graduates she would like to become a mental health nurse. In the meantime, Andrea and the team will be there for her.
If you are aged between 18 & 25 and look after someone who couldn’t manage without your help, don’t wait until things become too much. There is support available – from taking a break, learning new skills and helping with your CV, Andrea and the team can help. Tel: 0800 181 4118
Or why not take a look at our Young Adult Carer website YACbook.
Once I graduate I would like to be a mental health nurse and thanks to CSW I'm well onthe way to making it happen
