Barnardo's Willow Young Carers Service

Barnardo's Willow Young Carers Service is a partnership between Barnardo’s and Leeds Social Service Department. Established in 1994 we are a Leeds city-wide service, that works with children and young people who care for someone experiencing an illness or disability. This includes mental health problems like depression, anxiety and self harm.

We work alongside young carers to develop their skills and strengths to achieve their own goals. Willow workers and young people use the Action Plan (PDF) and Review Form (PDF) to plan and keep track of the work they are doing. Young carers may be supported by Willow to reach their goals in a variety of ways, including:

• one to one and group support
• obtaining grants and funding for holidays and equipment
• activity days and residential breaks
• support around education, training and employment

In addition, we are committed to promoting the needs of young carers within a wide range of childcare and adult services including education, youth and mental health services.

We involve young people in the planning and appraisal of our services, and through our young people’s Participation Group, the work of the project as a whole.

For more detailed information on how we work with young carers, please have a look at our Introductory Booklet (PDF), which is designed as a guide for young people who are new to the service.