Leaving school is a big step, and for young adult carers it can bring a mix of excitement, uncertainty and new opportunities. Whether you’re thinking about college, university, work, training or taking some time to explore your options, it’s important to know that support is available every step of the way.
As a young adult carer, you may have additional responsibilities at home that can affect your plans for the future. You are not alone. There are organisations, grants, colleges and universities that understand the challenges young carers face and can provide practical help, advice and financial support.
This page brings together information and resources to help you make informed choices, access the support you are entitled to, and feel confident about your next steps.
“I honestly think that if it hadn’t been for the college orientation day I would have been really freaking out about starting college. I’m actually really excited about it now”.- (Carer post school transition programme – 2021)
Being a young adult carer can help you develop valuable skills such as communication, organisation, problem-solving and resilience. These qualities are highly valued by colleges, universities and employers.
Find information about education, training, apprenticeships and employment opportunities on our Education & Employment page.
Explore: Education & Employment
Dundee & Angus College recognises the valuable contribution young adult carers make and offers support to help you succeed in your studies.
If you are a young adult carer, you may be able to access:
When applying, consider letting the college know about your caring role so they can help you access available support from the start.
The University of Dundee is committed to supporting students who have caring responsibilities.
Young adult carers studying at the university may be able to receive support through:
If you are considering university, it is worth contacting the support team early to discuss your circumstances and explore the help available.
Abertay University understands that caring responsibilities can create additional challenges for students.
Support available may include:
Informing the university about your caring role can help ensure you receive any support you may be entitled to during your studies.
Hear from Claire Gammie, Abertay’s Widening Access Officer about options available for student carers.
Looking for work, training, or education opportunities? Discover Work Dundee can connect young adult carers with local employability services that provide free advice, guidance, training, and personalised support. Whether you want to build your skills, increase your confidence, or find meaningful employment, support is tailored to your individual needs.
The Young Carer Grant is a payment available to eligible young carers in Scotland to help recognise the important care they provide.
You may be able to apply if you:
The grant can be used in any way that supports your wellbeing, education, interests or future plans.
The Young Scot Young Carers Package provides opportunities, discounts and benefits designed specifically for young carers.
The package can help you:
If you are a young carer aged 11-18, it’s worth exploring what’s available through Young Scot and making the most of the benefits on offer.
Planning your next steps can feel daunting, especially when you’re balancing education, work and caring responsibilities.
The Young Adult Carers staff at Dundee Carers Centre are here to support you. We can help you explore your options, understand what support is available, and connect you with services that can make the transition from school to adult life easier.
Get in touch with Dundee Carers Centre if you’d like to talk about your plans for the future. Together, we can help you find the path that’s right for you.
