We’re excited to introduce Saher, who has joined Together As One as our new Young Carers Lead!

From Birmingham to South London and now Slough, Saher’s journey has been driven by a commitment to grassroots change and uplifting young voices. With a background in sociology and hands-on experience supporting young people, Saher recognised the lack of awareness around young carers and knew this was where she needed to focus her energy. Now at TAO, she’s working to shine a light on these often overlooked young people and ensure they get the support they deserve.

We sat down with Saher to learn about her path into youth work, what drew her to TAO and her vision for empowering young carers across Slough.

How did you get into the field of working with young carers?

I decided I wanted to work for a grassroots charity that supported young people while I was studying at university and also working as a SEND TA – I just didn’t know exactly what it would look like for me.

When I realised how little awareness there was of young carers, I knew this is where I wanted to focus my attention. While statistically we know the average age of a young carer is around 11 to 15-years-old, we know they can be as young as 5-years-old. Since many aren’t formally identified, the actual figures could be a lot higher in a much younger age bracket. There simply isn’t enough awareness and I want to change that.

What made you decide to join TAO?

What drew me to TAO is that it is genuinely youth-led and rooted in the community. TAO doesn’t dictate change from the top down, it works alongside young people and families in Slough. We share the same vision of wanting to provide genuine care and support for young people no matter their circumstances.

What’s important to me is being part of a community that values young people’s voices, empowers them to lead, and is committed to creating real, lasting change by working with the community, not for it.

What have been your highlights of working with TAO so far?

Of course it’s got to be the team! Everyone is extremely knowledgeable and welcoming. I know I can talk to them about anything both professionally and personally.

It’s also been cool to see just how much TAO is ingrained into Slough’s community. Everyone is so connected and it’s clear the wider community has a lot of respect for not just the work that TAO does, but also the people behind it.

What is the main piece of advice you like to give to young carers?

Seek out support even if you’re under the impression that you wouldn’t qualify for it, chances are you do or there’s something else better suited to your circumstances and needs. Unfortunately, a lot of information about young carers isn’t made readily available (don’t worry, we’re working on it!), so it’s important to advocate for yourself and see what’s out there for you. If you don’t ask, then you’ll never know. There is no need to suffer in silence.

Your role is all about empowering young people, what makes you feel empowered?

I try to be my own biggest cheerleader. I feel empowered when I push myself to do things I don’t really want to do in the moment, like exercising, as I know I’ll feel so much better afterwards. By prioritising things like gym classes and practicing the piano, I know I’m looking after my future self.

I also like to structure my days around socialising with nurturing people. That means, surrounding myself with a good support system of family, friends and colleagues.

What do you think makes a good and connected community?

Communication, without a doubt. In the face of economic and political uncertainty, knowing your neighbours is one of the best ways to provide and receive support.

That said, you can’t have a connected community without connecting to yourself first. When you prioritise your own mental health and well-being you transform yourself into a better support for others. In other words, get off your phones!

What activities and/or hobbies bring you joy?

Outside of work, I enjoy playing the piano which I’ve been learning since 2023. As a big music person, I find myself drawn to all sorts of genres and I always look forward to adding something new to my repertoire. Otherwise, I enjoy staying active by focusing on my health and fitness. I was into yoga for a while and have since discovered the joy of a high energy spin class!

I’m also passionate about activism and learning more about how communities can create long term positive change. People often underestimate the power of talking and listening. But it’s as simple as listening to your neighbours and rallying together for a common cause.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Advocate for yourself more and trust your gut! Thinking back, there are times when I wished I’d spoken out about things I knew were wrong, but didn’t fully understand or have the language to accurately verbalise what I intuitively felt. Alongside that, I’d say to have more confidence. You don’t always need to be right and there is never a right time, so don’t let that hold you back. Make time for yourself and just do it.

In her new role, Saher supports young people in various ways including through Slough Young Carers. Get in touch with Saher at 07547559050 or email her at [email protected].