Rotary Young Carers Assistance Program evolved in 1997 after seeing a T.V. documentary on young children looking after sick and/or disabled parents or siblings, with little or no assistance. After a meeting with Carers N.S.W. the Rotary Club of Hawkesbury decided to raise money to provide holiday camps to give these children relief from their everyday lives, which includes feeding, bathing and medicating family members, subsequently having an impact on their emotional, social and noticebly, educational development. These camps are a fantastic opportunity for Young Carers to 'connect' with other young people who know what it's like being a Young Carer (as well as knowing what it's like being a young person in general). It is a place where Young Carers make friends with each other, hang out together, support each other and have heaps of fun! All this is done in an environment that is 'safe' and caring. Lots of Young Carers also say that they get tips on how to deal with 'stuff' that comes up in life. Young Carers realise that when they come to camp, they are not alone. A help line has been developed as a follow up to these camps, where children can have discussions with qualified counsellors. At present there are two camps held each year, one for 7 to 12 year olds and one for 13 to 18 year olds. Contact : |
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