"Young Carers": Support Services for Children Who Provide Care at Home

On the occasion of the National Day of Action for Caring Children and Adolescents on Thursday, the Ministry of Social Affairs drew attention to support offers for those affected. Around 43,000 "Young Carers" support their families every day - "often in silence," as Social Minister Korinna Schumann (SPÖ) noted. The department offers online information material and points to further support offers.

Digital Platform "Young Carers Austria"

To relieve the young caregivers, information is available via the "Young Carers Austria" app and website, according to the Ministry of Social Affairs in a release. The offer is aimed at caring children and adolescents and "supports them in better coping with their challenging situation." Relatives or people in teaching, health, and care professions can also find information there to recognize and support young caregivers.

"Family Consultation" via Phone, Online or On-Site

In addition to the digital offers, the Ministry of Social Affairs also referred to the possibility of a so-called "family consultation." The offer, which has existed for many years, provides important psychosocial support. "This low-threshold and free offer helps to individually process the emotional burdens that arise from the care situation." The consultations with psychologists can be conducted at home, at another location, by phone, or online, it was said.

Up to ten free appointments per caregiver can be requested by calling 050 808 2087. The only requirement is that care allowance is received for the person being cared for.

Social Minister Demands More Visibility

"Young Carers take on essential tasks in the everyday lives of their families - often quietly and invisibly. These young people organize the household, take care of their relatives' care, and thus hold together much that would otherwise fall apart," said Schumann. At the same time, they repeatedly encounter limits "that they cannot and should not overcome alone." "They deserve more visibility, more recognition, and targeted support," said the department head.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.