Am I a young carer?
You are a young carer if you are under 18 and are looking after someone regularly because they’re physically or mentally ill, disabled or have an addiction. You might be caring for your mum, dad or grandparent or you might be helping your parents care for a brother or sister who is unwell, has a disability or special needs.
Some people start giving care at a very young age and don’t really realise they’re carers. Other young people become carers overnight when someone in their family has an accident, or another carer becomes unavailable.
Young carers might help someone with:
- washing, dressing or taking medicines
- shopping, cleaning and laundry
- paying bills and organising finances
- watching over someone if they can’t be left alone
All of these count as being a young carer. If this sounds like you and you would like some help or advice, get in touch, or by calling 0800 083 1148. Our telephone lines are open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday and calls are free.