In the Netherlands, one in four children and young people care for a loved one with an illness, disability, mental illness or addiction (SCP, 2022). They help out extra at home, worry and sometimes lack the necessary attention for themselves. A care situation often has more impact than you think. Therefore, from 1-7 June, during the Week of the Young Caregiver, we ask extra attention for their situation.
'More than you think'
Many young informal caregivers do not realize that their situation is special - and so are the people around them, such as teachers, sports coaches, friends, neighbours and family members. That's why the national campaign 'More than you think' is so important! With new images and stories, we make people aware of what young family caregivers go through and the impact it has on their lives. The campaign calls on everyone to take action. It can be something small, like asking how someone is doing, or something bigger, like offering a moment of relaxation. Every gesture counts, more than you think.
What's happening in at VU?
On Tuesday, June 2, there will be an information booth in the lobby of the main building where students can go for information on what informal caregiving entails and what VU can do for you as a student. In addition, there are fun prizes to be won!
On Thursday, June 4, there will be an informative session for students and employees. The program includes lectures by a researcher, informal care experts and experts by experience. They will share insights and practical tools to better recognize and support students who care for family members. For more information and registration, visit this event.
Want to know what you can do?
Help out: see, realize and support a young family caregiver.
Check out WeekvandeJongeMantelzorger.nl