The caring child: an evaluative case study of the Cornwall Young Carers project

Abstract

This paper reports on an evaluation of the Cornwall Young Carers project (jointly funded by social services and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Health Action Zone), conducted during the period 2000–2002. A diverse range of methodological approaches were adopted (comparative national statistics, local pilot study, monthly and quarterly data capturing instruments, and a service user focus group) in monitoring and evaluating the project's high level statements/outcomes. Four evaluative themes are discussed, namely: identification of young carers; assessment of young carers' needs; direct service provision; and partnership working. Recommendations and action steps are proposed with a view of informing future planning and service delivery, as well as developing an ethos of integrating evaluation into everyday practice for the Cornwall Young Carers Project. Overall, the project has made significant progress in meeting and exceeding its original targets. The fact that the project has been able to identify 202 new young carers over this period is a key milestone in demonstrating the critical need for the project's services. It is suggested that existing referrals are only the ‘tip of the iceberg’ for work with young carers in Cornwall.

Young Carers in Australia:Understanding the Advantages and Disadvantages of Their Care Giving

“…Similarly, in the United Kingdom, Butler and Astbury (2005) found that inappropriate levels of government income support, in proportion to the amount of caring they performed, often made young carers feel that recognition, praise or respect for their contribution was lacking. Young carers felt the strain of having to contribute to the family's finances and, in some cases, felt responsible for paying the mortgage and the household bills because existing financial support for their parents was inadequate.…”

“…In the United Kingdom, Butler and Astbury (2005) found that isolation, social exclusion and stigmatisation were major issues for young carers. Young carers reported that their role as carer restricted opportunities to socialise with their peers and resulted in carers having to 'steal' an hour here or there for social activities.…”

“…In both Australia and Britain, lack of access to transport was identified as a major factor contributing to social isolation (Butler & Astbury 2005;Noble-Carr & DFaCS 2002b). British research found that young carers were frustrated by a lack of self-sufficiency with respect to transport, compounded by the fact that they were not legally licensed to drive even though circumstances forced them to play adult roles within their families (Butler & Astbury 2005).…”

“…British research found that young carers were frustrated by a lack of self-sufficiency with respect to transport, compounded by the fact that they were not legally licensed to drive even though circumstances forced them to play adult roles within their families (Butler & Astbury 2005).…”

‘The web is not enough, it's a base’ – an explorative study of what needs a web-based support system for young carers must meet

“…The general view is that YCs are negatively affected by the care situation, particularly in cases where the situation is long-term [4] and the child or young person has no healthy adults to turn to and rely on [5]. Young carers are at risk of becoming isolated and socially excluded and experiencing problems with school [6]. They may have to restrict their leisure time, leading to difficulty in maintaining friendships [6].…”