Imagine this: you miss soccer practice because you have to stay home to look after your little sister, who has a disability. Or you help your father with household chores every day because your mother is mentally vulnerable. For many children and young people in the Amstelland and Haarlemmermeer region, this is their daily reality: they grow up with someone in their immediate circle who has a chronic illness, a disability, mental health issues, and/or an addiction. They are young caregivers—and often neither they nor those around them are aware of it.
During National Young Caregiver Week, June 1–7, Mantelzorg & Meer is drawing extra attention to these children and young people. After all, caring for someone else at a young age can have a significant impact on your development, your energy levels, and your social life.
Activities in all municipalities
Throughout the month of June, Mantelzorg & Meer is organizing various activities for young caregivers (ages 6–25) in the municipalities of Amstelveen, Aalsmeer, Uithoorn, Haarlemmermeer, and Ouderkerk aan de Amstel.
For example, eating pancakes, jump freerunning, Funmania, and flower arranging. Want to learn more or join in? Visit Mantelzorgenmeer.nl for the program and to sign up.