All children deserve a childhood
Some children aren’t able to enjoy the simple things many children take for granted, because they are caring for someone in their family who is ill or disabled.
Young carers take on a lot of responsibilities, including washing and dressing the person they're caring for and looking after younger siblings – plus domestic chores such as cooking, cleaning and shopping.
That's a lot to take on as a child.
With so many adult responsibilities, young carers often miss out on opportunities that other children have to play and learn.
Many struggle educationally and are often bullied for being ‘different’. They can become isolated, with no relief from the pressures at home.
We aim to help as many young carers as we can. We help them look after their loved ones and give them time to enjoy their childhoods.
At our services across the UK we:
- organise outings and activities for young carers
- give young carers advice and emotional support through counselling sessions
- help the family get support from social services
- talk to a young carer’s school, so teachers understand their situation and can be supportive
- run drop-in centres where young carers can take a break, have fun, be a child – and meet other young carers
Megan
Young carer