Case Study 4 (East)

Case Study 4 (East)

Boy aged 13 was referred to Cheshire Young Carers in November 2015 by his social worker.  He supports mum who struggles with her mental health and anxiety, which has a large emotional impact on him. When mum’s mental health deteriorates, he struggles to cope emotionally, which results in a dip in his behaviour and he becomes socially isolated, often refusing to leave the house. As a result, he has low confidence and self-esteem. He was also having problems with behaviour in school, which resulted in him being excluded a number of times. He has also recently been diagnosed with ADHD.

He began attending sessions in January 2016. At his first session, he engaged very well with activities, despite being nervous. Cheshire Young Carers Link Worker was present at his first session to ensure he had 1:1 support to help settle into the group. He has good attendance at regular evening sessions. Cheshire Young Carers have provided him with workshops within sessions such as First aid, and body positive sessions. He has also been invited to attend additional opportunities such as a flying day, and a day trip to Tattenhall. He has built a good relationship with the Link Worker, and knows he can go and talk to her whenever he needs 1:1 support.

When he began attending Cheshire Young Carers sessions, he was subject to a Child in Need plan. He struggled to regulate his behaviour and had low confidence and self-esteem. Since attending Cheshire Young Carers, he has built up a good support network of friendships within the sessions.  His confidence and self-esteem has grown and it is evident to see how much attending Cheshire Young Carers sessions is benefiting him.