Drop In’s and Peer Support

Every month the TEN STYC team visit different educational settings in South Tyneside to set up their regular drop in sessions for registered young carers. Staff bring along snacks, quizzes and games for young carers/young adult carers to do within break time of their timetable. We like to make it fun and relaxed, and is not an environment where students are forced to talk about their caring role. These drop in sessions are optional to attend and students know where we are if they need us.

The drop in sessions allow students to feel supported within education settings and means as a service we have great rapport with teaching staff. Educational drop ins are an excellent way for young carers/young adult carers to get to know us as a team, have a break from their studies and make us aware of any issues they might be facing at school, college, 6^th form, work or home. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for them to meet other young carers/young adult carers within their education setting who they can lean on for support when young carers staff or the Young Carers school link is not available. We also feel being present in these settings encourages young carer awareness and a positive outlook on what a young carer is and the support available.

Building a relationship with young carers/young adult carers this way allows us to offer one-one and peer support. It gives us a chance to listen to their feedback, therefore constantly developing our service to meet and exceed their needs and wants.