Who are young carers?

Young carers are children and young people who look after someone in their family who is ill, frail, has a disability or a mental health problem.

The care that is given might be washing and dressing, shopping and cooking, dealing with money and bills, cleaning, giving medicine, keeping an eye on someone and being a shoulder to cry on.

They may be providing care and support where there are members of the family affected by drug or alcohol abuse.

Young carers often look after their mum, dad, sister, brother, grandparent or family friend.

The impact of caring on young carers

Lots of young carers say they get many rewards and satisfaction from caring, and grow through a sense of responsibility. However, young carers should not be expected to take on too much, and need support to ensure problems don’t develop.

• Many young carers may feel alone or isolated and unable to talk to anyone about their situation.
• Young carers can experience bullying from their peers.
• Their education and career prospects could be put at risk if they are taking on too much.
• Their health can be put at risk, especially when they are under stress.

Support for young carers

If you are a young carer, or if you know someone who is a young carer, advice and support is available from a range of sources:

Community services can provide:

• Information on local and national forms of advice and information.
• An assessment of the looked after person. It may be possible for us to provide support services in order to relieve you.
• An assessment to see what kind of support you need to be able to carry on caring, and ensure you are not taking on too much.
• Assistance in making referrals to local agencies, who may be able to provide further support.

Contact

If you'd like more information or would like to apply for these services contact the Customer Advice Centre

If you'd like to talk about your circumstances and responsibilities as a carer with a children's social worker, contact the Customer Advice Centre and ask for the Children and Families Referral and Assessment Team.

Selby and York Carers Centre also provides support for young carers.