Blaenau Gwent Young Carers Project

The Blaenau Gwent Young Carers Project (BGYCP) was set up in 2000. It supports children and young people who reside in Blaenau Gwent between the ages of 8 - 25 who take on a caring role within their family or whose lives may be affected because a family member needs care.

The Project aims to compliment existing services and work alongside other professions and agencies whilst, at the same time, develop new services to meet the needs of young carers and their families. The Project focuses on a child centred approach and will endeavour to provide a unique and personal service to each young carer.

The BGYCP is managed by Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations(GAVO) and is a registered charity.

The Project provides:

Respite - Regular youth nights are offered where the members are given the opportunity to meet up with other young carers from around the borough of Blaenau Gwent.

Activities and events are organised by Project staff after consultation with the young people. The activities could involve such things as horse riding, paint balling, and outdoor pursuits days, along with events such as Young Carers Festivals.

Residential weekends to outdoor pursuits centres are also offered where members have the opportunity to meet up with young people from other Young Carers Projects. The weekends build confidence and self esteem through various activities, whilst promoting communication and team building skills.

Informal Training - The Project encourages members to participate in informal training such as Basic First Aid and Drug and Alcohol Awareness, where members have the opportunity to gain knowledge and new skills.

Small Group Work is made available for members to meet up to discuss issues that are affecting them.

One To One - This gives members the opportunity to meet with a project worker to discuss any concerns that they do not feel comfortable talking about in front of other members.

Advocacy - This is provided for members where a project worker is needed to speak in support of the young carer in a given situation.

Transport - This is a door to door service that is provided for all members enables them access all services provided by The Project.

Contact Address:-

Blaenau Gwent Young Carers Project
16A Market Square
Brynmawr
Ebbw Vale
NP23 4AJ