St Nick's Young Carers Program

St Nick’s has been providing young carers aged 9 to 17 years with respite and recreation since 1998. Young carers are offered weekend activity days, and camps which are run for five days, twice a year during school holidays. 

Weekend activity days provide recreational activities throughout the year that they may not otherwise access due to their caring role, social isolation, or financial restraints on their family. 

The program aims to provide children having a tough time with a break from their home situation and a chance to have fun in their holidays and on the weekend. The program also allows young carers the opportunity to engage with others in similar roles to share their experiences. 

What is the cost of this service?
St Nick’s is free of charge.

Who can access this service?
Young carers aged 9-17 years in the Canberra region. A young carer is a young person who cares for a family member with a chronic illness, disability, is frail aged or has a drug or alcohol dependency.

Where is the service located?
The camps and activities take place around Canberra and the surrounding region. Weekend activities include ice skating, rock-climbing and bowling. Camps are held at retreat and recreation centres in dorm style accommodation.