I am really pleased to have been asked to become a patron for the brilliant local charity Sheffield Young Carers. 

It’s a great project offering practical and emotional support to inspiring young people and children between the ages of 8 and 25 who care for a member of their family. They provide one to one support, group activities, respite holidays and support with education, employment and training. They also work with other organisations, like schools and the NHS, to ensure that they can support young carers too.

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Sheffield Young Carers’ staff and members since becoming an MP in 2010. I’ve organised a tour of the Houses of Parliament for them, held dedicated meetings for young carers as part of my Big Conversation, and raised funds to support their work. This year I’ll be pressing the Government on making Carers Allowance more accessible for young people.

I’ve been hugely impressed by the young carers that I’ve met, who juggle study or work with caring for family members. I’m delighted to become a patron and will continue to work with them and raise their concerns in Parliament.

You can donate to Sheffield Young Carers here.