Brentford FC Community Sports Trust is proud to highlight our work with young carers in Ealing and Hounslow as part of our 12 Days of Impact campaign. This vital initiative provides much-needed support, advice, and respite to young carers aged 8 to 18 living in the London boroughs of Ealing and Hounslow, with recent expansion to Northolt and Greenford.
Who Are Young Carers?
Young carers are children and young people who take on responsibilities for a family member with an illness, disability, mental health condition, or substance misuse challenges. Their caregiving roles can vary from high levels of personal care to frequent, lower-level tasks—both of which can significantly impact their education, social lives, and wellbeing.
Tailored Support for Young Carers
The Young Carers Project offers a range of services designed to meet the unique needs of these remarkable young people:
Weekly youth clubs in Hanwell and Feltham
Fun activities during school holidays including day trips.
Workshops covering skills like cookery, first aid, employability, and CV writing.
One-to-one support and tailored advice.
School-based support and collaborative work with statutory and voluntary agencies.
Remote support via phone, online platforms, and regular text updates for those unable to attend sessions in person.
These opportunities provide young carers with a break from their responsibilities, a chance to meet peers facing similar challenges, and time to simply enjoy themselves in a safe, supportive environment.
A Growing Impact
After successfully establishing the programme in Ealing, the Trust extended its reach to Hounslow and, with support from a sponsor, into Northolt and Greenford in 2024. This expansion reflects the Trust’s commitment to increasing access for young carers who are often hidden in plain sight, unrecognised, and without appropriate support.
Despite our significant reach, we are aware that we are only addressing a fraction of the need. The Trust remains committed to engaging with more young carers and ensuring they feel seen, valued, and supported.
Expertise Built on Experience
The programme is led by Kathryn Sobczak, the Trust’s Young Carers Manager, who brings over a decade of experience and a personal understanding of the pressures faced by young carers, having been one herself. Kathryn’s insight and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the success of this initiative.
Transforming Lives
For many young carers, the Trust’s support goes far beyond a single activity or session. It provides a lifeline—an opportunity to take a break from their responsibilities, form meaningful connections, and access experiences that may otherwise be out of reach.