OVER 100 people attended an annual conference which highlighted mental health amongst young carers.

The Worcestershire Young Carers’ annual conference was about the importance of young carers getting the right mental health support and identifying mental health issues as early as possible.

The event, held at Worcester Warriors’ Sixways Stadium, was led and organised by members of Worcestershire Young Carers’ Participation Group.

This group is funded by BBC Children in Need and gives young carers the opportunity to influence local policies, to raise awareness and to have a voice on young carers’ issues.

This year’s event, Mental Health & Me, was held on September 26.

Guests included representatives from a broad range of sectors including health, social care and education.

READ MORE:

'We all want to help' - Fundraisers see target hit £300,000 towards Oscar's treatment

29 stone man loses five stone during recovery from severe stroke

Speakers included inspirational London-based fashion photographer and illustrator, Elspeth Van Der Hole, who was herself a young carer and who has been on a journey to overcome depression and anxiety.

Sue Rogers, children’s services manager and Blues Programme lead at Action for Children also attended.

Jon Cawdron, senior project coordinator, Worcestershire Young Carers, said:

“It was wonderful to see so many people at this year’s conference and to hear from our guest speakers who gave some real insight on how we can help support young carers and ensure that their mental health needs are met. It was also great to see so many of our young carers talking among themselves and with guests from so many different sectors, creating a real buzz and sharing experiences and ideas.”

Worcestershire Young Carers provides a range of support for young carers aged seven to 17 as well as for young adult carers aged 18 to 25. This includes assessment, signposting, one to one support, monthly clubs and activities. The service has been delivered by YSS since 2003 and currently supports over 550 young carers throughout the county.