Supporting Young Caregivers: Upcoming Events from Young Carers Association

The Young Carers Association is taking significant steps to support children and young people who provide care to family members. This year marks the fourth year of their collaborative initiative, 'Wazukuri,' which fosters learning and connection among young caregivers and their supporters across the nation. Notably, two exciting events are on the horizon: 'Wazukuri in Hokuriku' and the 'Young Carer Supporter College' online courses.

Wazukuri in Hokuriku

Set to take place in November 2025, the 'Wazukuri in Hokuriku' symposium will be hosted in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The event aims to foster dialogue among local practitioners, government representatives, and mental health professionals who engage with young caregivers. Featuring lectures and cross-talk sessions, the participants will share experiences and challenges related to supporting young caregivers in the region. This gathering aims to promote collaboration and networking across different areas.

Event Details:

- Date: November 25, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00
- Venue: Shiinoki Geihinkan, 2-1-1 Hirohisa, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Registration Fee: Free (Pre-registration required, limited to 80 participants)
- How to Register: Via Peatix (Wazukuri Hokuriku Registration)

Young Carer Supporter College (Online Modules)

In 2026, the Young Carers Association will conduct an online course series known as the 'Young Carer Supporter College.' This series consists of three interactive sessions followed by a networking event, designed primarily for professionals involved in supporting young caregivers across various sectors, including administration, welfare, education, psychology, and healthcare. Each session will emphasize critical topics such as advocacy for young caregivers' voices, comprehensive family support, and trauma-informed care strategies.

Course Schedule:

- Session 1: 'Listening to the Voices of Young Caregivers' - February 9, 2026, from 18:00 to 20:00
- Session 2: 'Connecting, Untangling, and Supporting Challenging Families' - February 20, 2026, from 18:00 to 20:00
- Session 3: 'Trauma Care Practices for Hurt Children' - March 6, 2026, from 18:00 to 20:00
- Networking Event: Young Carer Online (Exchange Meeting) - March 11, 2026, from 18:00 to 19:30

- Format: Online via Zoom
- Fee: Free (Pre-registration required)
- Archive Viewing: Available for a limited time
- Registration: Via Peatix (Young Carer Supporter College Registration) - Opening Mid-November

Purpose of the Events

The overarching goal of these initiatives is to create a shared knowledge base, encouraging the expansion of support networks. By cultivating collaborative relationships beyond traditional 'supporter/supported' roles, the events will enable supporters to learn from one another and contribute to a stronger community of care.

About the Young Carers Association

The Young Carers Association is dedicated to career support, establishing a LINE consultation service, and implementing local support initiatives for young caregivers. The organization actively engages in outreach programs to raise awareness among municipalities, businesses, and educational institutions. Additionally, they manage communities and events tailored to young caregivers, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

- Representative: Seigo Miyazaki
- Location: 101 Belview Hill, 2-9-32 Hatanodai, Shinagawa City, Tokyo
- Scope of Activities: Nationally, primarily focused on the Tokyo metropolitan area
- Website: Young Carer Japan

Contact Details for Event Inquiries

- Organization: Young Carers Association
- Contacts: Miyazaki & Hoshino ([email protected])

Event Hosts

The events are proudly organized by the Young Carers Association under the auspices of the Children and Family Agency's 2025 Young Caregiver Mutual Network Formation Promotion Program.