Dean's story
Dean, aged 7, is a young carer who helps care for his older brother, who has a diagnosis of autism and ADHD.
His brother’s complex needs means a high level of risk when he's outside, as he tries to run away. This makes it hard for the family to go out socially.
The family feels guilty that Dean does not have the same opportunities as his peers to have fun, enjoy positive experiences and experience activities as a family due to his older brother’s needs. As the family moved to Aberdeen, they do not have any nearby additional support from family.
Dean was offered the opportunity to be involved in the face-to-face holiday group programmes and thoroughly enjoyed making new friends, meeting other young carers and having fun. He positively engaged in all the support provided in various ways. He accessed local funding to purchase items that helped him with his health and wellbeing, such as Lego and a new bike.
It was also identified that Dean might benefit from weekly music therapy sessions to increase his confidence and self-esteem. He has thoroughly enjoyed them, and these breaks have had a positive impact on his confidence, mental health and wellbeing.