A PROJECT that provides support for young people who care for sick or disabled relatives has been awarded £42,000.

Derwentside Young Carers, based in Stanley, received the grant from the Northern Rock Foundation.

The scheme, which is run by children's charity Barnardo's, was set up in June 2000 to work with the significant number of young carers living in the district.

Most of them are aged 11 to 13 but in some cases, the group helps children as young as six.

The vast majority care for a parent but there are some who help look after a brother or sister.

Derwentside Young Carers currently has only one full-time project worker and the money will be used to pay for extra staff.

A spokesman for the Northern Rock Foundation said: "We're very pleased to be helping young children who have caring responsibilities, to benefit from the support and help given by a Barnardo's carer worker."

Having the responsibility of caring for a relative at such a young age can have a detrimental effect on a young person's emotional, social and educational development and can also pose a number of health risks.

Project worker Emma Stillwell said: "A good proportion of young carers will be required to lift the person they are caring for. This results in the risk of developing back problems.

"Young carers also miss out on schooling and career opportunities, with 71 per cent having been bullied because their home life is different."

Derwentside Young Carers works closely with Durham County Council's Social Services Department and County Durham and Darlington Health Authority.

It provides information, support and advice for youngsters and helps them access the services they need.

It also puts them in touch with other young people in a similar position and gives them a break from their duties by taking them on day trips to attractions such as the Centre for Life and Flamingo Land.

Barnardo's also has a young carer's scheme in Easington, which offers similar support services.

l Derwentside Young Carers is looking for volunteers to help take children on day trips. Anyone who would like to help should contact the project on (01207) 283585