Free Expert Online Mentoring for Young Carers in SA
Young carers in South Australia will now have access to free, expert online mentoring, thanks to a new partnership between Young Carers SA and national not-for-profit mentoring provider, Raise.
This innovative program is designed to support young people aged 13 to 16 who provide care for a family member living with disability, chronic illness, mental health concerns, substance misuse or who is ageing.
South Australia is home to an estimated 30,000 young carers (about 7% of the state’s youth population), many of whom balance their caregiving role with school, friendships, and their own wellbeing. The new mentoring initiative aims to support these young people through weekly one-on-one sessions with trained and youth safety-checked Raise mentors.
Sessions are delivered online, making the program accessible for young carers living in rural and remote areas, as well as those in metropolitan Adelaide. The focus is on building confidence, resilience, goal-setting skills and help-seeking behaviours, providing a safe space for young carers to focus on themselves.
“While young carers are incredibly selfless and proud of the support they give, the role often places a heavy load on their education, social life and emotional wellbeing,” says Brigid Koenig, General Manager of Young Carers SA.
“This program offers them a trusted adult who checks in every week, listens, and supports them to thrive in their own right.”
Raise CEO and Founder, Vicki Condon, said that nearly half of Raise’s mentees in SA already identify as young carers, which reflects the need for targeted support.
“Young carers tell us mentoring helps them step back from their care duties, recognise their own needs and feel more respected,” says Vicki.
“It helps them stay engaged with school and gives them tools to manage challenges during their teenage years.”
For Mary*, a mum from Elliston on SA’s Eyre Peninsula, the program has been a game-changer for her daughter, a 12-year-old young carer.
“We live really remotely, so an online option makes all the difference,” she says. “In-person support would mean hours of travel. This way, she can connect from home, feel safe and be supported through what can be pretty tough times.”
The Raise mentoring program is free for young carers aged 13–16. It runs for 10 or 17 weeks, with weekly 1-hour sessions.
How to Get Involved
To find out more or to register, contact Young Carers SA on (08) 8433 9555 or email programs@carersupport.org.au.
*Name has been changed for privacy.
About Young Carers SA
Young Carers SA is a dedicated program of Carer and Community SA (CCSA), supporting South Australians aged 5 to 25 who care for someone in their family. Their work is focused on empowering young carers through advocacy, tailored resources, and meaningful support.
Image Source: supplied
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