This year’s theme, ‘Fair Futures for Young Carers’, highlights the importance of ensuring young people who help care for family members have the same opportunities as their peers to learn, grow and thrive.

“ National Young Carers Action Week is an important opportunity to recognise the incredible contribution young carers make to their families and communities.

“In Walsall we are proud to support more than 475 young carers across the borough. These young people often carry significant responsibilities, and it’s vital that we ensure they have the same opportunities as their peers to learn, grow, and thrive.

“Our week of activities was designed around the theme of ‘Fair Futures for Young Carers’, giving young people a chance to relax, connect with others and access support, whilst also raising awareness of the help available to them and their families. “

Councillor Mark Statham, Portfolio Holder for Children, Families & Lifelong Learning
Walsall Council

Young carers are people under the age of 18 who help look after someone – often a family member – who cannot cope without their help due to illness, disability, mental health difficulties or addiction. Alongside their caring responsibilities, many are balancing school, friendships and growing up.

To celebrate young carers across the borough, Walsall Council organised a variety of exciting events to coincide with the Carers Trust’s National Young Carers Action Day, which took place on Wednesday 11 March 2026.

Throughout the week, young carers and their families were invited to take part in a range of activities, alongside professional training events and support opportunities for parents and carers.

Events included:

• Monday 9 March – Parents and families attended a coffee morning at the Village Hotel.
• Tuesday 10 March – Young carers tested their skills at the Ninja Warrior UK centre.
• Wednesday 11 March – Professionals working with young carers came together to network, train and raise awareness of the council’s referral pathway and available services.
• Thursday 12 March – Young carers enjoyed vintage gaming and arcade games at Retro Realm.
• Friday 13 March – Young carers and their families were attended a celebration event at Walsall Town Hall with food, entertainment, awards and guest speakers.

“ Thank you for to the Walsall Young Carers service. Every single member of the Walsall Young Carers team puts in amazing work for us young carers. They give us space to have that downtime we deserve and to connect with other children our own age. “

A young carer who spoke at Friday's celebration event

To find out more information about Walsall’s Young Carers group, visit the council's dedicated webpages for Young Carers.