YOUNG carers from Wyre Forest are being asked to give their views on what they think of local carer services, what they value and what they would like to see changed.

Worcestershire County Council is introducing an online survey to gather the opinions with the aim of helping to shape support for young carers into the future.

Across the county there are around 3,500 people aged between 10 and 19-years-old who look after someone – unpaid – such as a family member, neighbour or friend because of ill-health or disability.

County councillor Liz Eyre, cabinet member for children and families, said: “Young carers do some amazing work by looking after family members and others in the community.

“It is important that we understand their views and make sure they get the advice, guidance and support they need to continue with such an important role.

“If you know or work with a young carer, please let them know about the survey and encourage them to take part.”

The number of referrals to the council’s young carer service has increased by about 19 per cent since April 2013, while in the past ten years, there has been a rise in the number of young carers throughout the county of 18 per cent.

Worcestershire is one of only seven local authorities to be chosen to pilot the Young Carers in Schools programme being launched by the Carers Trust, while the county council is also aiming to raise awareness of young carers and their needs through a new e-learning package.

The package, Young Carer Aware, can be accessed through visiting worcestershire.gov.uk/cms/carers-unit/young-carers.aspx

For more information, or if young carers or others wish to enquire about support, call 01905 730788, email youngcarers@yss.org.uk or visit yss.org.uk/young-carers/