Lambeth Carers: a new service to support the wellbeing and aspirations of young carers
Commissioned by NHS lambeth | For Carers Hub Lambeth | Team: Saskia Baard, Rebecca Birch | My role: Project Lead | 2016
Challenge
Young carers are young people looking after a family member or a friend experiencing illness, disability, mental health problems or addiction.
Carers are twice as likely to be in poor health, and 75% of carers find it hard to maintain social relationships.
The care provided by friends and family members to ill, frail or disabled relatives is equivalent to £132 billion every year, considerably more than total spending on the NHS. However, half of all carers in the UK feel undervalued.
This project focused on carers aged 16 to 25, as there was no support provided for this age group. As young adults, they are also in a moment of transition where their caring role could come into conflict with their aspirations.
Process
In-depth research and co-design with young adult carers
Audio storytelling to build empathy with professionals (GPs, schools, support workers)
Prototyping through bespoke games and role-playing
Service blueprinting
Branding
Outcome
Carers Hub Lambeth was able to successfully apply for funding to deliver a new service supporting young adult carers. The service focuses on giving them the tools for wellbeing and resilience, and supporting their aspirations.
“‘It’s been invaluable and has helped me come out of my shell. I was feeling anxious and isolated but now I feel I have a place where I can be more open about myself as there are others just like me.’ ”
Summary insights report
Branding and
illustrations