Nine-year-old Newport carer gets helping hand (From South Wales Argus)

Nine-year-old Newport carer gets helping hand

4:52pm Thursday 2nd July 2009

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A NEWPORT school boy has had to grow up fast after helping his family and caring for his younger brother.

Nine-year-old Joel Powell, of West Street, gets on better with adults that he does with children of his own age and is described by his father as a “mini adult”.

That is because before joining Barnardo’s Newport Young Carers scheme, the Clytha primary school pupil rarely had the chance to play except at break-time in school.

Joel lives with his father Simon, 45, who has fibromyalgia, a disorder of the central nervous system which affects his movement, sight and concentration levels.

Joel’s mum Allison, 35, had post natal depression after the birth of Joel’s brother Daniel, 2, and his stepsister Heleana, 14, who has Asperger’s syndrome and ADHD.

This meant Joel took on a lot of responsibility at home, helping to look after Daniel, helping out with the shopping and around the house.

Mr Powell said: “Joel never moaned about anything and he is always willing to help but he was picking up on our stress and it used to trigger instances at school.”

Since joining Newport young carers Joel has had the chance to enjoy activities like swimming, doing pottery and going out for picnics.

Mr Powell said: “He has become a happier and more confident child.”

Barnardo's Cymru runs five young carer schemes across Wales offering young carers practical and emotional support.

Newport Young Carers organises activities for young carers for them to have fun and enjoy childhood.

For support from Newport Young Carers contact them on 01633 262019.

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