Sidekick is a confidential helpline for young carers aged 13 to 18 in the UK. Message us about anything that’s bothering you.
*Texting is free if you have free texts included in your mobile plan. If not, it will cost the normal rate charged by your provider.
We aim to reply within 24 hours during these hours. If we’re offline when you message, we’ll get back to you when we reopen.
Need urgent help? If you’re worried about your safety, call Childline on 0800 1111. If you need mental health support, text the word SHOUT to 85 258. If you need urgent help from the police or a hospital, dial 999 from any phone.
We support young carers aged 13 to 18 in the UK – and up to 25 if you have special educational needs.
It’s okay to get in touch if you’re not sure if you’re a young carer or if you’re younger.
Lots of things!
You can ask us anything you like – it will be confidential and there will never be any judgement from us.
Everything you say is confidential.
This means we won’t tell anyone else about the things you tell us, unless we’re worried about your safety or the safety of someone else.
These are the times we might need to tell someone what you’ve told us:
We will always try to work with you to help you get the support you need from people around you.
Texting is free if you have free texts included in your mobile plan. If not, it will cost you the rate charged by your mobile provider.
Emailing is free.
Yes! Sidekick coaches are real people with lots of experience listening to and supporting young people.
On our team at the moment, you could be talking to Kylie, Christie, Claire or Gina.
“They gave a lot of options in how to help and listened to everything I said. Also didn’t judge you.”
Anonymous, age 13
“I loved the advice you gave me. I will definitely use Sidekick when I need someone to talk to.”
Anonymous, age 13
“This has given me resources to learn about the disability my brother has more. I really appreciate it.“
Anonymous