THOUSANDS of local students who juggle caring for a relative with school and social demands will receive more support thanks to a new plan by Hampshire County Council.

A three-year blueprint has been developed to co-ordinate services for young carers - an estimated one in 100 Hampshire youngsters - who manage the difficult demands of being a carer.

The plan will ensure that young carers can access specialist services to help them, while at the same time ensuring they enjoy the same opportunities in life as their friends who do not perform a caring role.

Councillor Felicity Hindson, Hampshire County Council's executive member for children's services, said: "We are committed to giving young carers the best support we can. They play an invaluable role caring for relatives, but it is important that we recognise they are children first, and they should have the same access to opportunities in life as other young people who do not have caring roles."

The council will work closely with the Children's Society on a pilot project to ensure whole families are assessed and a holistic approach is taken to helping both the carer and the person they look after.

Dedicated development workers will also raise awareness of the needs of young carers and promote the provision of support tailored to meet those needs.

Work will also be carried out in schools to raise awareness of young carers, ensuring fellow pupils have a greater understanding of the additional responsibilities that they face.

First published: Wednesday, October 19, 2005