Information for young carers

Caring for a loved one with a physical or mental illness, disability, or addiction can be challenging, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you provide support to a family member in these situations, you are a carer.

Young Carers are aged 5-13, while Young Adult Carers are aged 14-25.

We’re here to help. You can register with Suffolk Family Carers for guidance, advice, and support—whether for yourself or on behalf of a young carer

At West Suffolk Hospital Foundation Trust, we are committed to supporting young carers, whether they are visiting to support a loved one or receiving care themselves.

If you are a young carer, we want to ensure you have the help and information you need. Please speak with the ward nursing staff to request a Family Carer Pack, which provides guidance and support during your time with us.

Young carers visiting a patient are entitled to: 

• A family carer badge to get discounted meals at the timeout restaurant on the first floor
• Extended/alternative visiting hours should you need this. Please speak with the nurse in charge.
• Discounted daily rates for car parking for Young Adult Carers.

Getting to our hospitals

For information on bus routes to West Suffolk Hospital and Newmarket Hospital, please visit Suffolk On Board.

Visiting information

Please speak to clinical staff if you would like an update on the patient you care for. if you are a young carer you are entitled to extended/alternative visiting hours should you need this. Please speak with the nurse in charge.View Ward visiting times and ward contact information.