Support for Young Carers

• A young carer is a person under 18 who regularly provides emotional and/or practical support and assistance for a family member who is disabled, physically or mentally unwell or who misuses substances” Child Law Advice
• “Children and young people (under 18) who provide or intend to provide a substantial amount of care on a regular basis” The Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995
• “A young carer is somebody who cares for or is affected by someone else at home – usually a parent or sibling – who suffers from physical or mental ill health, or who has substance misuse issues” youngcarers.org.uk
• “A young carer is someone who cares for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, cannot cope without their support” Carers Trust.
• Responsibilities of a young carer can include:
• Practical tasks, such as cooking, housework and shopping
• Physical care, such as helping someone to get out of bed
• Emotional support, including talking to someone who is distressed
• Personal care, such as helping someone to wash and/or dress
• Financial tasks, such as managing budgets
• Helping to give someone medicine
• Helping someone to communicate, such as signing or interpreting
• Looking after siblings

If you think you may be a Young Carer or knows someone who is – please do contact our Young Carers Mentor Team.