Support for Young Carers
Having a sibling or parent with CF can sometimes be tough. They may feel left out, miss out on attention, or even experience jealousy, worry, or frustration. We offer a range of supports to young carers.
Mental Health Support
Our psychosocial team can also offer one-on-one sessions to give them extra time and space just for themselves. These sessions are flexible and might include:
- Support around anxiety or emotion regulation
- Talking through any worries or big feelings
- Simply having special time to chat about their day and what’s going on in their world
- Using resources such as journals, creative activities, or sensory tools to help with expression and coping strategies
The goal is to create a safe space where they can share, feel understood, and know they’re just as important.
Separation Anxiety Support
Children frequently experience anxiety or worry when separated from their loved ones, which is a normal reaction. For the siblings and offspring of people with CF, this separation is sometimes unavoidable and can add additional stress to already challenging times.
If you have a child who is struggling with separation anxiety, read our Separation Anxiety factsheet for tips and information. We have resources and activities to help children feel connected while apart from loved ones including The Invisible String book and matching bunnies. We can also provide referrals to counselling, play therapy, or peer support programs where appropriate.
Young Carer Events
We run the following annual events for siblings and children with a parent with CF.
Sibs & Kids’ Day Out
This event, usually held in the April school holidays, offers a fun day out for young carers aged 7 to 16. It usually involves a fun activity such as Bounce/Flip Out, art/craft, bowling etc and provides an opportunity to make connections with other young carers.
Sibs & Kids’ Camp
Each year during the October school holidays, we hold a two-night camp for young carers aged 8 to16 years. The camp is a great opportunity for respite and to connect with others in a similar situation. Our young carers also get the chance to experience new physical and challenging activities.
CF Kids Connect Young Carer Sessions
Our CF Kids Connect program connects kids with CF online. We also host sessions which include young carers. Click here for term planners. New participants are welcome anytime.