Torfaen Young Carers

Who we support?

Torfaen Young Carers Service supports unpaid carers aged under 18. The Welsh Government defines young carers as ‘children and young people who help look after a member of the family who is sick, disabled, has mental health problems or is affected by substance misuse’.

What support is available?

Councils have a responsibility for the well-being of young carers and must ensure that they receive the necessary support. In Torfaen, we genuinely acknowledge the important role young carers play and we provide support and leisure opportunities to enable young carers to experience age appropriate activities and social relationships.

Torfaen Young Carers Service currently supports over 140 young carers. These young carers needs have been assessed and support is being provided. The support may include;

• One to one support
• Social groups
• Training
• Residential and trips
• Someone to talk to, to reduce worry, stress and isolation
• A break from their caring responsibilities and to meet other young carers

Who else the service works with?

Torfaen Young Carers Service works in partnership with:

• Youth Service
• Torfaen Play
• Sports Development
• Pontypool Youth Council
• Other third sector organisations including The Carers Trust South East Wales, Gwent Wild Life Trust and Honeypot for the better outcomes of our young carers.

Further details on the above partnerships and what support is available, as well as the process for accessing the Young Carers Service can be found on our Young Carers Factsheet. 

To be identified as a Young Carer, a child must meet all three of the following criteria:

1. They are under 18 years old
2. They are providing care or support that goes beyond what would reasonably be expected for someone of their age
3. They are caring for someone who has a diagnosed disability, illness, or significant substance‑misuse issue

These criteria work together to ensure that support is directed to children whose caring responsibilities have a meaningful impact on their wellbeing and daily life, distinguishing them from children who provide typical, age‑appropriate help within the family. 

If you are a professional working with a child/family and wish to make a referral to the Young Carers Support Services, please complete the Torfaen Young Carer Referral Form and email to the Young Carers Team at youngcarers@torfaen.gov.uk

Young Carer ID (Card Scheme)

The Young Carer ID Card is a free, two-year photo identification card issued by Torfaen County Borough Council for young carers under 18. It confirms the holder has caring responsibilities, helping them identify themselves to professionals in health, social care, and education settings without needing to explain personal details about their caring role. 

The card forms part of a Wales-wide approach funded by Welsh Government and developed through a partnership between Carers Trust Wales and local authorities, aimed at improving young carers’ experiences across key services. 

Apply for a Young Carers ID Card (Carer)

Apply for a Young Carers ID Card (Guardian)