East Lothian Young Carers

East Lothian Young Carers supports young carers aged 5-24 and their families in East Lothian. A range of services are offered to help young carers enjoy their childhood and have access to same opportunities as other young people.

Caring affects people in different ways at different times. Support is not time limited, so young carers can access support for as long as needed. ELYC also provide transport to and from all activities, and all services are free to attend.

Services Available

Young Carers Club give young carers a break from their caring role and the chance to have some fun and meet new friend.  They are held during the week, and are like youth clubs, so you can come along and take part in activities or just chill out in a safe, welcoming environment.  If you need to talk about anything staff are there to support you.

There are clubs for four different age groups:

• primary 1 – primary 7
• S1 – S2
• S3 – S4
• S5 and older

Activities include things like trips out to the beach or swimming, computer games, watching films, baking, and arts and crafts.

One-to-One Support gives young carers the opportunity to have some time out with a young carer’s worker.  This time can be used to talk about anything that might be on your mind or worrying you.

Family Support usually takes place at home and offers extra support and respite to the family as a whole. This can include help with things like:

• someone to talk to
• support to attend appointments and meetings
• help to access services
• help with applying for benefits, council tax, grants etc
• support to access community care assessments
• ​help with aids / adaptations in the home, and to access mecs alarm

• Groups and Self Help
• Young People and Families