A young carer is someone aged 18 or under who helps look after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem.
If you are a young carer you provide very significant and often crucial help to your family but it is important that you realise the role you are playing. Being a young carer can affect your wellbeing so it is ok to ask for help and additional support is available if you need it.
If you aren't sure whether you are a young carer this guidance sheet might help you, or take a look at this leaflet from Action for Carers to see if this sounds like you.
Everyone has mental health and it is just as important as our physical health. We all have times when we feel sad or frightened - mostly these feelings pass, but sometimes they develop into something more serious. This can happen to anyone and it is common for people to feel uncomfortable about discussing their mental health, but it's ok to say how you're feeling. To find out more about different mental health conditions, visit Mind's website.
What rights do I have?
If you are a young carer, you probably look after one of your parents, or care for a brother or sister. You may do extra jobs around your home, provide physical support (such as helping someone to get dressed). You may also provide emotional support. It's natural to want to help someone in your family who needs support, but young carers shouldn't do the same things as an adult carer.
If you spend a lot of time caring for someone else it can start to affect how well you do at school, your own emotional wellbeing can be impacted, and it can stop you from doing the same things as other people your age.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. You are entitled to a young carer's assessment from your local council which will identify any support you and your family might need. A written record of the assessment should always be shared with you. You can contact your local council by phone, in writing or online:
NHS Choices has helpful information on their website about being a young carer and what your rights are.
