Published March 10 2022
Saturday 5 March 2022 saw the official launch of Merri Health's young carer videos - with the event being held at Melbourne Zoo.
Merri was funded by the Victorian Government to create a series of videos involving young carers, aiming to raise awareness and celebrate what a young carer is.
Young carers living in Melbourne's North enjoyed a day out at the zoo, followed by a buffet lunch. The official launch event was hosted by Maryanne Tadic, General Manager Healthy Communities, and Juliane Reissle, Manager Carer Services.
Brittany Giles, Young Carer Support Worker, is a part of the team that puts on events for young carers such as Pasta Night, Murder Mystery and Dumpling Day.
"Saturday was so magical, to not only meet our wonderful families and young carers face-to-face but to celebrate our young carers and their stories. There was so much excitement to have our young carers share their story with the help of their favourite animals! Thanks to our wonderful young carers who talked about their story, who they support and what young carers do. We can educate teachers, schools, parents and other young people around what a young carer is and why it's so important they continue to be supported and recognised within the community!" Brittany
Michelle Watson, Young Carer Engagement Officer, worked with Ducky Creative to create four videos specifically designed to reach each audience. You can view the videos below.
Young Carers - For Families - YouTube
Young Carers - Mum and Me - YouTube
Young Carers - For Young People - YouTube
Young Carers - For Professionals - YouTube
Young Carer Videos - Playlist - YouTube
Do you know a young carer?
1 in 10 Victorian carers are young carers. Young carers are children and young people aged up to 25 who care for a family member. This can be a parent or sibling with a disability, mental illness, chronic condition or terminal illness. Young carers may also look after an older person with care needs.