Mohammed's story

During my third year of university in early 2019, I struggled mentally with balancing my studies while simultaneously tending to my full-time caring responsibilities for my mother, who has long-term Brittle Bone Disease.

I was fortunate enough to discover my local Carers Centre in Tower Hamlets, which is a Network Partner of Carers Trust, through my GP's Social Prescribing Service, and from there, everything changed.

I met Ben, my Support Worker from the Carers Centre, who introduced me to an upcoming Young Carers Group for ages 16 to 26.

At the time, it was in its pilot stage and soon to be fully operational within the Carers Centre. Naturally, I signed up! Fast forward five years, and what started as a small group of five has grown to over 60 young carers, all part of the Young Adult Carers Project.

It has become a safe haven for many of us, where we have made friends, shared experiences of caring for loved ones, and built a great social circle to just be ourselves.

The Carers Centre, in particular, has been a significant part of my life both personally and professionally.

Through the many training and learning opportunities offered by the centre, I was able to gain my first apprenticeship with the NHS and secure my first entry-level role in HR Business Administration.

I felt empowered to be a young carer and have my first job in public health, and I was fortunate to have an employer who supported the rights of carers.

My employer provided flexible work arrangements through a hybrid work model, allowing me to work from home a couple of days a week and on-site on other days. This was incredibly beneficial, as it enabled me to be in paid employment while simultaneously tending to my caring responsibilities.

Following my Business Admin apprenticeship, I have pursued further training and have now secured a full-time, permanent position in adult mental health as a Healthcare Support Worker, with future options to pursue a career in nursing, which is very exciting!

As a young carer, I believe it's essential to share our experiences with as many people as possible, especially employers and other young carers. This can empower others and give young carers a sense of hope and courage to pursue their dreams.

I am now also a Trustee of the Carers Centre, which is a true pleasure, as I know first-hand what it felt like to be a carer and service user, and now to be a trustee of the service.

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