THIS is the exciting time of year when many young adults go off to college, university or start an apprenticeship, but for those looking after someone else, they often lack the confidence or support they need to pursue their goals.

Carers Trust found that young adult carers between the ages of 18-25 are twice as likely not to be in education, employment or training.

Lacie, 19 from Trowbridge cares for her mum.

She has lots of responsibilities, making it hard for her to have time for herself or study, but through one-to-one meetings with a Carer Support Wiltshire support worker, Lacie had someone to turn to.

She said: “I really wouldn’t have been able to do it without knowing about the bursaries and grants I can apply for.”

Lacie is now looking forward to starting her college course in Swansea this year.

Studying a course in health and social care, she then hopes to go on to university.

Like Lacie, Hannah, 19, from Chippenham (pictured above) felt that university was something she wouldn’t be able to do while caring for her mum.

But Carer Support Wiltshire were key in helping Hannah with her own mental health and gave her the confidence she needed to apply for university.

Having completed a foundation degree in art and design, Hannah is now going on to study special effects make-up for film and TV at Bolton University.

But suddenly stopping your caring role and relying on others to care for your loved one can be incredibly hard.

“I felt really guilty. I felt like I was abandoning my Mum, but she’s always been really supportive and told me to just do what I need to do.’ Hannah said.

YACbook, the website for young adult carers, is a resource centre and community for those looking after a loved one across Wiltshire and beyond, making it easier for them to reach out for support and get the help they need to follow their dreams.

If you are a young adult carer who is worried you might not be able to go to college or university, check out YACbook.co.uk for useful information, advice and blogs or contact Carer Support Wiltshire on 0800 181 4118 for more information.