Young carers learn life-saving skills

YOUNG carers in West Somerset are being honoured for adding life-saving First Aid to their array of skills.
The 15 youngsters, aged between 11 and 16 years, have completed a Basic First Aid course with the support of the Somerset Young Carers Project.
Now, they are to receive certificates at a presentation in the Vennland Centre, Minehead, on Saturday, February 10.
The course was run in November with the help of the Somerset Youth Service and the Breaking the Cycle community initiative.
Young Carers Project co-ordinator Jo Sylvester said the skills learned on the day could be priceless.
She said: “For everybody, basic First Aid is something that could make the difference between life and death for a loved one.
“But for these youngsters the training is even more relevant.”
Somerset County Council funds the Somerset Carers Project with the help of voluntary groups.
It offers vital support to youngsters aged between eight and 16 who, usually due of family illness or disability, take on caring responsibilities for their parents or siblings. The project works with young carers and parents, helping them access community resources, and offering occasional breaks from their caring role.
County council portfolio holder for strategic services for children and young people, Councillor Pauline Clarke, said: “Although hugely important, the work of young carers is often overlooked.
“I am glad we have been able to support these youngsters with projects like this.”