Young Carers

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Who is a Young Carer?

A young carer is a person under 18 who provides or intends to provide care for another person, either a family member or a friend.

The person they support may be affected by an illness or have a disability – this can include conditions such as Autism or a learning disability. They may have a terminal or long term condition, a mental health illness, be elderly, or have issues with drug or alcohol misuse.

Being a Young Carer

Caring can affect a young person’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, social life and home environment.

The impacts of caring can include:

Poor attendance and attainment in school

Being a target for bullying

Missing out on life opportunities

Poor or restricted social and emotional development

Less likely to reach full potential educationally

More likely to participate in risk-taking behaviour

If left unsupported young carers can continue to struggle with school. By the time they reach 16 a young carer is more than twice as likely as their peer to be out of educations, employment or training (NEET)

What do Young Carers do?

Support can involve a lot of physical care such as personal care – helping someone to wash, dress, or use the toilet. They could be expected to give or check medication. Help someone with mobility issues. Domestic chores including; cooking, cleaning, washing, ironing. Do the family shopping. Help with household finances. Look after younger siblings.

A young carer may also provide emotional support, listening to worries or staying at home to keep someone company. They may deal with the aftermath of a drinking/drugs binge.