A Young Carer is someone under the age of 18 with caring responsibilities.
A Young Adult Carer is someone aged up to 25 with caring responsibilities.
Young carers are in families where a child or young person in the home is providing care for someone who has a mental health or physical illness, disability or a difficulty with drugs or alcohol.
But what is it like to take on such a big responsibility onto young shoulders?
They may be supporting with tasks in the home such as:
- cleaning
- cooking
- helping someone to get dressed
- helping someone to get around their home and the community
- looking after siblings
- providing emotional support, for example:
- listening to someone
- trying to keep them calm
What's the difference between a young carer and a young person who helps in the home?
A young carer has to help because the person they care for cannot meet all their own needs.
Other young people who help in the home take on tasks and responsibilities as part of growing up and gaining independence.
Information and Useful Links
Family Action Young Carers Darlington
Young Carers Darlington work with Young Carers (5-25), and their families, to provide support where needed. The service ensures that children and young people are protected from inappropriate caring and have the support they need to thrive and enjoy positive childhoods, to achieve their full potential. We support our Carers through a wide-range of activities, from initial assessments to one-to-one sessions, from fun activities to Carer Breaks, and through ensuring we keep the Young Carer at the heart of all we do.
Telephone: 01325 794888
Email: Youngcarersdarlington@family-action.org.uk
Address: St Teresa's Hospice, 91 Woodland Road, Darlington, DL3 7UA