To ask the Minister of Health what additional support his Department can provide to young carers.

In supporting young carers, my Department commissions the Northern Ireland Regional Young Carers Service, which is a regional service offering young carers individual support, short breaks, advocacy, advice and signposting. This support is delivered across the region by two voluntary sector organisations, Action for Children and Barnardo’s NI.

Young people are eligible for the service if they are aged between 8-18, have a substantial caring role for a member of their family, and whose caring responsibilities have an impact on one or more of the following: their education, physical health, emotional wellbeing, and provides opportunities for social interaction with their peers. The service also includes the provision of information, group work and one to one support.

My Department will continue with its ongoing efforts to support our young carers, and we are committed to providing those supports both practical and financial for them, resources permitting.