An extra £50,000 is to be invested by Richmond Council in supporting young carers in the area as part of changes made to its Carers’ Strategy announced recently.

The council estimated there were more than 2,000 young carers across the borough, some of whom are as young as five.

These carers provide unpaid care to disabled and mentally ill family members as well as those suffering from substance misuse issues.

Councillor Christine Percival, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Young carers are fundamental to strong families and stable communities which is why the council has invested additional funding to support the network of young carers who live in our villages.”