Information » Family & Relationships » Being part of a Family » Young Carers
- If a parent or close family member cannot care for themselves, it is sometimes left to the younger members of the family to look after them
- There are tens of thousands of young carers in the UK, some neglecting their school work or social life to care for a family member who needs them
- Being a young carer can put a strain on your physical and emotional health as it can often be a full-time job for a young person
- You may experience disturbed sleep, stress, poverty or social isolation. You may also feel angry, upset, weak and that things are getting you down
- The emotional strain of caring for someone can have a long term effect on you, so don´t keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself. If you feel you can´t talk to your parent or someone in the family, there are confidential groups who will listen. See the list below for more information
- Often young carers and their parents don´t talk about the extent of caring for fear of being split up or feelings of guilt or pride, but there is no shame in asking for help if you need it
- If you are a young carer and need support or advice, there are people you can talk to who can help. You aren´t alone and you don´t have to deal with things on your own.
