Who are Young Carers

A Young Carer is a young person who lives with someone who has an illness, disability, mental health or substance misuse problem. They may also be taking on practical and/or emotional caring responsibilities that would normally be expected of an adult.

The caring can involve lots of physical care such as personal care, giving medication, helping someone get up, get dressed or to get around, or it could mean providing emotional support such as listening to them if they’re upset and looking out for them. In addition, many Young Carers are also responsible for looking after younger brothers and sisters and all or most of the household chores.

Young Carers are at risk of social isolation and bullying, under-achievement, absenteeism from school, and physical and mental ill health.